The resurgence of "Suits" on Netflix has captivated audiences anew, largely attributed to the enduring charm of Meghan Markle, according to her co-star Abigail Spencer. Despite the series concluding its television run four years ago, its addition to Netflix's vast library has reignited interest, coinciding with a period marked by an industry-wide strike that left a void in new content production.
Spencer, in a candid conversation on "The Jess Cagle Show," speculated on the factors contributing to the show's newfound popularity. Among them, she highlighted Markle's magnetic presence, both on and off-screen, as a pivotal allure for viewers.
"And also Meghan's loveliness, you know, that everyone is aware of her and her being on the show," Spencer remarked, underscoring the Duchess of Sussex's impact.
The timing of "Suits'" Netflix debut, amidst a content drought due to the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes, presented a unique opportunity for the series to recapture and expand its audience. Netflix's strategic positioning played a crucial role, as Spencer noted, "Netflix repositioned it, so I think there is something to positioning on Netflix and when other things aren't being made, it commands your attention, but it has to be great for people to watch it."
Markle's transition from actress to Duchess has only magnified her influence, with her every move closely followed by the public and media alike. Her recent projects, including the "Harry & Meghan" docuseries on Netflix, have further intertwined her narrative with the streaming giant, possibly contributing to "Suits'" resurgence.
Echoing Spencer's sentiments, Meghan Markle herself reflected on the show's legacy during Variety's Power of Women awards. "It was great to work on, such a great cast and crew. We had a really fun time. I was on it for seven seasons, so quite a bit," Markle shared, acknowledging the rarity of finding a series with such extensive content for binge-watching in today's landscape.
"But it's hard to find a show you can binge-watch that many episodes of these days, so that could have something to do with it. But good shows are everlasting," she added, encapsulating the timeless appeal of "Suits."
As "Suits" enjoys its renaissance on Netflix, the intricate interplay of star power, strategic content positioning, and the broader industry context has provided a fascinating case study on the dynamics of television series' lifecycle in the streaming era. Markle's enduring appeal and the series' intrinsic quality have converged to introduce "Suits" to a new generation of viewers, reaffirming its place in the pantheon of beloved television dramas.
