Harry and Meghan Sign Major Production Deal with Netflix

It's been confirmed today the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have signed a significant multi-year deal with streaming giant Netflix following months of private meetings with several streamers and networks. The collaboration will see the couple launch their own production company which will make content for Netflix "that informs but also gives hope". It's understood Harry and Meghan are focusing on documentaries, docu-series and family-friendly programming, with causes close to their hearts expected to feature prominently.

In a statement, Harry and Meghan said: "Our lives, both independent of each other, and as a couple have allowed us to understand the power of the human spirit: of courage, resilience, and the need for connection. Through our work with diverse communities and their environments, to shining a light on people and causes around the world, our focus will be on creating content that informs but also gives hope. As new parents, making inspirational family programming is also important to us, as is powerful storytelling through a truthful and relatable lens. We are pleased to work with Ted and the team at Netflix whose unprecedented reach will help us share impactful content that unlocks action."

There are several projects already in development, including an "innovating nature docu-series" and an animated series celebrating inspiring women. We can also expect documentaries focused on similar themes to their non-profit, Archewell, which is due to launch early next year. I wouldn't be at all surprised to see Invictus involved and perhaps a series celebrating the power of food to bring communities together.

More from the Hollywood Reporter:

'"Harry and Meghan have inspired millions of people all around the world with their authenticity, optimism and leadership," said Sarandos, co-CEO and chief content officer at Netflix. "We're incredibly proud they have chosen Netflix as their creative home — and are excited about telling stories with them that can help build resilience and increase understanding for audiences everywhere."

The duke and duchess will focus on creating programming that resonates with them, including issues that are the focus of their nonprofit foundation, Archewell. They're also committed to featuring diverse voices in front of and behind the camera and in hiring for their production company, which is staffing up.

Markle was an actress, most notably on USA's legal drama Suits, before marrying Prince Harry. She has no plans to return to acting, though per the Times, the couple may appear onscreen in documentary projects. Harry is featured in Netflix's recently released documentary Rising Phoenix, about the Paralympic Games, and joined with Oprah Winfrey to produce a docuseries on mental health for Apple TV+.'

Thus far, the couple are following a similar path to the Obamas after their time in the White House. The former President and First Lady have merged their commercial interests with the founding and growth of their charitable foundation. Their mission is to "empower, inspire and connect people to change the world for good". We've seen them inspiring leaders globally, supporting young girls through education and the launch of the Obama Foundation Fellowship which supports outstanding civic innovators. They divide their time between these endeavours, speaking engagements, publishing deals, and their own production deal with Netlflix, which saw Barack and Michelle produce the Oscar-winning documentary American Factory for the streamer. Recently, Michelle Obama signed a deal with Spotify to create podcasts. We know both couples are very friendly, I have no doubt the Obamas have offered advice and guidance as Harry and Meghan navigate this new chapter in their lives.

More from the Telegraph:

'The Sussexes are following in the footsteps of Barack and Michelle Obama, who already have a multi-year contract to work on scripted and unscripted series, docu-series, documentary films, and features.

Trade magazine Variety compared the Obama's deal with other high profile signings, including a deal worth more than $100m which saw Netflix poach 'Grey’s Anatomy' creator Shonda Rhimes from ABC Studios.'

It very much appears plans are falling into place for the couple. They have settled in their new home in Montecito, Santa Barbara, a property they reportedly view as their long-term home. With their Netflix deal inked and a decision to sign with the Harry Walker speaking agency, they will be able to achieve financial independence and proceed with their plans for the future. In addition to producing for Netflix, we're going to see Harry and Meghan putting a great deal of energy into Archewell, continuing charitable work in the US and plans to return to the UK both to spend time with family and to support their patronages. 2020 has been a year in flux, and filled with unexpected challenges and difficulties for all of us. For Harry and Meghan, things are very much in motion toward an exciting chapter for them with Archie. Most importantly, they will be able to do the work they are so passionate about on their terms whilst putting the happiness of their family first.