When Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced their Netflix documentary, the anticipation was electric. Viewers expected a raw, heartfelt window into the lives of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex after their high-profile departure from royal duties. With the couple often in the headlines for breaking traditions and redefining their roles, many believed the series would deliver the inside story people had long been waiting for. But what promised to be a groundbreaking moment has instead turned into a storm of criticism and disappointment.
Rather than receiving praise, the series has been met with words like “boring,” “tedious,” and even “a load of old nonsense” from both critics and viewers alike. For Netflix, which invested heavily in the Sussexes as part of its star-studded lineup, the lackluster reception raises serious questions about the couple’s future on the platform.
So, what went wrong?
One of the biggest points of contention is the contradiction between the couple’s past and present narratives. Harry and Meghan have frequently discussed their desire for privacy and the detrimental effects of relentless media scrutiny. Yet, their documentary does the very thing they once criticized, opening the doors to their personal lives for the cameras. For many, this move feels confusing at best and hypocritical at worst. It has left audiences questioning not just the sincerity of the series but also the couple’s broader media strategy.
Beyond this, the documentary struggles with storytelling. Instead of weaving a compelling narrative with fresh insights, it often comes across as self-indulgent. Viewers expecting revelations or deep emotional moments were left underwhelmed, feeling the series did little to justify the global attention surrounding it.
This fallout isn’t just about one show. For Harry and Meghan, every public move is scrutinized, and the Netflix series was a chance to reset the conversation. Instead, it has amplified doubts about their authenticity and left Netflix executives rethinking the value of their partnership.
Ultimately, the documentary serves as a reminder that storytelling, especially when it involves figures as polarizing as Harry and Meghan, requires more than fame. It requires vulnerability, clarity, and connection with the audience. Without those, even the most anticipated projects can fall flat.