In a surprising turn of events, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are shifting their focus from Netflix to Paramount, raising eyebrows about their much-publicized multi-million dollar deal with the streaming giant.
Just last month, it was announced that the couple was set to launch two distinct factual series: one led by Harry spotlighting the world of professional polo, and another spearheaded by Meghan, centered on gardening, cooking, and lifestyle themes.
However, as details emerge, it appears that the Sussexes’ plans may not be as solid as they initially seemed.
Meghan’s upcoming show is designed to celebrate the joys of cooking, gardening, and entertaining, all while fostering friendships.
Shortly after this announcement, she introduced her new brand, American Riviera Orchard, which is rumored to offer home décor items and culinary condiments.
Yet, just when it looked like they were on the right track, whispers began circulating that the Sussexes might be pivoting away from Netflix altogether.
What happened to that exciting $100 million contract and the highly anticipated cooking show that was supposed to take the world by storm?
According to intriguing blind items from CDAN, it turns out that the chefs involved in Meghan’s show are feeling quite frustrated.
Despite her claims of culinary expertise, Meghan isn’t exactly a trained chef, and sources suggest that Netflix was less than pleased with her unwillingness to participate in an upfront presentation for her show.
Instead, she deemed such appearances beneath her, leading to dissatisfaction among the network executives.
This situation has left the cooking show teetering on the edge.
Unlike Selena Gomez, who charmed audiences with her relatable cooking antics, Meghan’s approach seems to have alienated key players.
Reports indicate that her micromanagement style has driven directors and staff to walk out, leaving the project in disarray.
The once-promising cooking show now finds itself in turbulent waters, with Netflix reportedly hesitant to move forward.
Amidst these challenges, Meghan’s recent product launch has drawn its fair share of scrutiny.
As part of the debut for American Riviera Orchard, she distributed jars of strawberry jam—her brand’s first offering—to a select group of 50 friends and influencers.
Each jar was numbered, suggesting an air of exclusivity.
However, this move has sparked criticism, leading royal expert Tom Quinn to comment on Meghan’s heightened sensitivity to public perception.
Quinn noted that Meghan, like her husband, feels unfairly targeted by critics and struggles to understand why her efforts are not universally admired.
He pointed out that she is particularly sensitive to any backlash regarding her luxurious lifestyle in the U.S., viewing her endeavors as commendable rather than subject to ridicule.
This perception of being under constant scrutiny seems to weigh heavily on Meghan, fueling her desire to shift public opinion.
In response to the mounting criticism, Meghan is reportedly planning a public relations blitz ahead of the official launch of American Riviera Orchard later this year.
This strategy aims to attract new followers and secure appearances on popular talk shows and podcasts.
By positioning herself more favorably in the eyes of the public, she hopes to counteract the negative sentiment that has surrounded her recent ventures.
Moreover, Meghan may be selectively available for interviews with journalists in an effort to reshape her narrative.