Netflix extends Archewell deal

Netflix extends multiyear first-look deal with Archewell Productions led by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

Netflix extends partnership with Prince Harry and Meghan in multiyear deal

Netflix and Archewell Productions have extended their partnership with a multiyear first-look deal. The arrangement continues a collaboration that began in 2020 and has yielded documentaries and series such as Harry & Meghan, Polo, Heart of Invictus, and Live to Lead; Meghan also developed a lifestyle brand As Ever with Netflix.

Under a first-look deal, Netflix has the right to approve projects before Archewell can shop them to other studios. First-look deals are typically less lucrative than exclusive agreements, but they offer producers more flexibility. The companies announced upcoming projects including a second season of With Love, Meghan, with a holiday episode in December, a Masaka Kids documentary short, and a feature adaptation of Meet Me at the Lake. Bela Bajaria, Netflix's chief content officer, praised the couple's influence and audience resonance behind the collaboration. The partnership continues the couple's push to build media ventures in the United States after earlier deals with Spotify.

The multiyear deal shows Netflix betting on creator led franchises that travel globally. The first-look structure gives Netflix a gatekeeping role while preserving Archewell's ability to shop content elsewhere. This model aligns with streaming's demand for speed and selective investment.

The arrangement reflects a broader trend of high profile figures turning to streaming to monetize influence, while also raising questions about how such partnerships shape the public conversation around the royal family and celebrity power. It also signals the streaming platform's ongoing strategy to diversify beyond established franchises.

Highlights

The next chapters will reveal how the collaboration shapes the couple's creative ambitions and Netflix's evolving slate.