Netflix has reportedly decided to cancel a major behind-the-scenes project tied to Meghan Markle, titled With Love, Meghan: Behind the Kitchen, following the show's disappointing performance.
According to insider reports, CEO Greg Peters, along with Netflix’s board of directors, made the unexpected decision to scrap the three-episode miniseries, which was intended to offer viewers an exclusive look into the making of Markle’s latest venture.
When Netflix initially signed Meghan Markle to a staggering $100 million contract, expectations were exceptionally high. However, instead of a success story, With Love, Meghan became an undeniable failure.
Ratings plummeted, audiences disengaged, and subscribers voiced their dissatisfaction. The show, which was promoted as an intimate lifestyle and cooking series, failed to capture viewers’ interest. As numbers declined and criticism mounted, Greg Peters and the Netflix board realized swift action was necessary.
Reports suggest that Netflix executives convened an emergency meeting after internal analytics revealed a troubling drop in subscribers, a downturn largely attributed to the show’s underwhelming reception. Further complicating matters, Netflix had initially planned to release With Love, Meghan in two parts, marketing the second installment as a new season. However, insiders have disclosed that what was labeled as "Season 2" was merely unused footage from the original production, edited and stretched to give the illusion of an extended series.
Greg Peters, prioritizing transparency, reportedly insisted that the follow-up should be labeled as "Part Two" rather than a full-fledged second season. This decision allegedly clashed with Markle’s preferences, as she wanted the branding to suggest continued success. Despite her objections, Netflix moved forward with Peters' recommendation.
In an effort to generate more interest in the struggling series, Netflix had originally greenlit With Love, Meghan: Behind the Kitchen, a three-episode special featuring exclusive interviews, outtakes, and behind-the-scenes insights into Markle’s creative process. Scheduled for a May release, this miniseries was intended to boost engagement and potentially rehabilitate the franchise’s image. However, after reviewing the negative reception and declining audience interest, Greg Peters convinced the board to abandon the project entirely.
Sources indicate that approximately 60% of Netflix’s board had previously supported Markle’s projects, but her latest failure has significantly weakened her standing within the company. Reports claim that Markle was infuriated upon learning of the cancellation and had multiple heated exchanges with Greg Peters at Netflix headquarters. She reportedly argued that the behind-the-scenes special could have redeemed the series and improved public perception. However, with subscriber losses mounting and Netflix’s reputation at stake, Peters remained firm in his decision.
As part of a last-ditch effort to salvage her show’s image, Markle allegedly demanded that select behind-the-scenes footage still be incorporated into With Love, Meghan: Part Two, emphasizing what she believed to be her most compelling moments. However, Netflix has already committed to excluding key scenes, further distancing Markle from the company’s leadership.
Despite the controversy, With Love, Meghan: Part Two is still slated for release. However, Netflix’s diminishing enthusiasm for Markle’s projects casts doubt on the future of their partnership. Some insiders speculate that the streaming giant may be exploring ways to sever ties with Markle entirely, though contractual agreements complicate the situation. Whether Netflix and Meghan Markle can repair their relationship or if this marks the beginning of the end remains to be seen.
