Netflix is reportedly in discussions to renew its partnership with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, with a proposed documentary focusing on Princess Diana's life and death potentially forming the cornerstone of a new deal. The series is slated to coincide with the 30th anniversary of Princess Diana's passing in 2027, sources familiar with the matter said.
The streaming giant, whose original $99.5 million agreement with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex is set to expire later this year, is eager to extend its relationship with the royal couple. According to a source based in Los Angeles, the new documentary would be a solo project for Prince Harry, with the royal serving as co-executive producer, host, and narrator.
"The idea is that it would be a solo project for Harry, who would be a co-executive producer as well as hosting and narrating the series," the source revealed. They added, "He is uniquely placed, not only to talk about the woman he knew as his mother, but also to examine her role as an enduring social and cultural icon still beloved by so many."
The documentary would serve as the latest collaboration between Netflix and the Sussexes, who first partnered with the platform in 2020. Their debut project, the 2022 documentary Harry & Meghan, offered a behind-the-scenes look at their lives following their departure from royal duties.
While negotiations over the potential new series are ongoing, no formal agreement has been reached. Industry insiders suggest Netflix views the project as a vehicle to maintain its high-profile relationship with the couple.
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams weighed in on the discussions, telling GB News, "They have to get Netflix and have to keep them on board. I think they will get something from Netflix in the future, that seems to be the sign because the head of content at Netflix appeared to be appreciating their efforts in statements so that does imply that something is going to continue with Netflix."
Fitzwilliams added, "I would be amazed if it was anything like what they planned when they first signed. Whatever contract comes up, it appears there's going to be some sort of continuation. Certainly, for the Sussexes, it is far from encouraging."
Netflix's current co-chief executive officer, Ted Sarandos, has described Harry and Meghan as "the jewels in our crown." Sarandos recently defended Meghan's latest project, With Love, Meghan, after it received a mixed critical reception. The lifestyle and cooking series, released this spring, managed to land at number six on Netflix's top 10 list in both the U.S. and U.K.
"We're a passive partner in Meghan's company, and it's a big discovery model for us right now," Sarandos said in defense of the show.
With Love, Meghan has already been renewed for a second season, bolstered by strong viewer interest despite some unfavorable reviews. Fans of the Duchess have expressed enthusiasm for the show's continuation, underscoring the couple's ongoing commercial appeal.
The proposed Princess Diana documentary, if greenlit, would air in 2027 to mark three decades since Diana's death in a Paris car crash. One source suggested the project might even offer Prince Harry a platform to reconnect with his brother, Prince William, though no official comment has been made from the Sussex camp.
