Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · August 15, 2025 · Entertainment

Royal Rumble: Harry and Meghan's Netflix Deal Slammed as 'Slap in the Face'

'It's definitely a slap in the face,' Richard Eden (pictured), the Daily Mail's Diary Editor, said on the latest episode of Palace Confidential on YouTube

Meghan and Harry's Netflix Deal: A Shocking Downgrade or a Clever Move?

The royal family drama just got juicier! Insiders are calling Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's new Netflix deal a "slap in the face" and a major downgrade from their original contract. But is it really as bad as they claim, or is this a clever move by the Sussexes to boost their bank account?

According to sources close to the palace, the couple has signed a multi-year, first-look deal with Netflix for film and television projects. Sounds impressive, right? Wrong! The catch is that this deal is worth less than their previous contract, which was reportedly worth up to $100 million (75 million pounds).

The Sussexes signed a new 'multi-year, first look deal for film and television projects' with the streaming giant - understood to be worth less for the couple than their previous contract

So, what exactly does this mean? Well, as royal expert Richard explained on Palace Confidential, "This is none of a kind from everything I have heard. It's just a first-look deal, so the only money they will receive is if the programmes are commissioned." Ouch! That means Harry and Meghan won't be getting a fat paycheck upfront like they did before.

But wait, it gets even juicier! Richard also pointed out that this new deal is not what Harry implied in his infamous Oprah Winfrey interview. Remember when he said they needed money quickly because security and finances had been cut off from the palace? Yeah, that was just a few months after they signed their original contract with Netflix!

Richard's not alone in thinking this is a big downgrade. Rebecca English, the Royal Editor for The Scholarly Note.com, agreed: "It depends who you talk to... Those that are their great supporters say, 'This is a triumph! They've got renewed commitment from Netflix!' But those that don't like Harry and Meghan are saying it's a massive downgrade."

Richard Eden (left) and Rebecca English (centre), the Daily Mail's Royal Editor, star on the show alongside host Jo Elvin (right)

So, what's really going on here? Is this just a clever business move by the Sussexes, or are they in trouble financially? TheScholarlyNote.com's Chief Showbusiness Writer Alison Boshoff thinks she has the inside scoop. "She said it would be a first-look deal, there would be a few more forthcoming programmes, and a holiday special from Meghan on her With Love, Meghan programme... She got everything right!"

But here's the thing: this new deal is actually pretty standard for Netflix. According to Alison, Harry and Meghan's new contract is similar to those given to other big-name producers like the Obamas and their Higher Ground productions.

So, what do you think? Is this a downgrade or just business as usual? TheScholarlyNote.com wants to hear from you! Share your thoughts on this royal drama in the comments below. And stay tuned for more updates on Meghan and Harry's Netflix deal – it's far from over!

Rebecca, who has been covering the royals since 2004, explained that 'like everything with the Sussexes, it's very divisive'.

A Breakdown of the Deal:

  • Multi-year, first-look deal with Netflix
  • Worth less than their previous contract (up to $100 million/75 million pounds)
  • The couple won't receive a fat paycheck upfront; instead, they'll only get paid if their projects are commissioned
  • Includes a holiday special from Meghan on her With Love, Meghan programme and a documentary about children in Uganda

What's Next for the Sussexes?

TheScholarlyNote.com will be keeping a close eye on Harry and Meghan's Netflix deal. Stay tuned for more updates, and don't forget to share your thoughts on this royal drama!