Meghan Markle, amid critique of Netflix project 'Polo', is set to launch a cooking and lifestyle-focused show.
The Mirror reported that this new venture, tied to American Riviera Orchard, brings uncertainties from Netflix insiders regarding its prospective impact and success amid reports of difficulty in working with Markle.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry released a Netflix series titled 'Polo' on December 10, which has not been well received. The series, hoping to captivate audiences with its in-depth look at the sport of polo inadvertently left viewers underwhelmed. Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams described the series simply as "dull".
The final episode of 'Polo' introduced the duo personally, but it seemed too little too late to sway public opinion. Criticism of the show has cast a shadow over Meghan's forthcoming initiatives with Netflix.
An insider conveyed substantial doubts by saying, "It's so much work with her," highlighting the complexities involved in collaborations with Meghan.
Following the lukewarm reception of 'Polo', Meghan is pivoting to a different genre by exploring the culinary world.
Her new program aims to connect viewers with the joys of culinary arts, hospitality, and camaraderie, under the banner of her brand American Riviera Orchard. However, the shift has not fully reassured industry experts or those within Netflix itself.
This sentiment is further echoed by another source from Netflix. They have skeptically remarked on the deliverables of Meghan’s upcoming show, suggesting that the output might not justify the investment. “Bluntly, the 'deliverable' does not seem to be worth it,” said the insider, stressing the gamble Netflix is taking with this project.
There are increasing pressures on the success of this new culinary show. If it fails to make a significant mark, it could potentially affect the renewal of the Sussexes’ contract with Netflix, set for discussion in 2025. This doubt places Meghan's new endeavor at a critical juncture.
Despite the clouds of doubt, production plans for Meghan's cooking show move forward. The concept centers on her branding of American Riviera Orchard, which itself is a new pursuit for her. The show intends to delve into recipes, organic farming, and the fostering of social bonds through shared meals.
The insider pessimism extends to fears about whether the show will even be broadcast. After the faltering performance of 'Polo', a Netflix source disclosed concerns that Meghan's culinary program "may not see the light of day" if preliminary feedback continues to trend negatively.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Meghan's personal life remains vibrant and full. As the holiday season approaches, Meghan, along with Prince Harry and her mother Doria, is preparing to celebrate Christmas at their home in Montecito. Contrastingly, they remain unlinked to the royal family's traditional Christmas gathering at Sandringham.
The new Netflix show proposes an intimate look into Meghan’s lifestyle and personal tastes, weaving them into the broader narrative of societal and community connections through food. If successful, it could not only revitalize Meghan's image but also her contract with Netflix.
Yet, the stakes are high, and the pathway is fraught with apprehensive critiques and anticipatory skepticism from within the industry.
Comprehensive success is essential not only for the show’s survival but also for maintaining a fruitful long-term partnership with Netflix.
As Meghan forges ahead, the convergence of professional challenges and personal celebrations encapsulates the precarious balance of public life and private endeavors.
The coming months will prove critical in determining the trajectory of her professional engagements with Netflix and perhaps, her public persona’s enduring resonance.