Netflix's Ted Sarandos backs Meghan Markle's brand: 'She's underestimated'
What's the story
Co-CEO of Netflix, Ted Sarandos, recently addressed the streaming platform's active partnership with Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex.
Speaking with Variety, Sarandos noted Netflix's investment in Markle's lifestyle and cooking show, With Love, Meghan, and its investment in her lifestyle brand, As Ever.
"We're a passive partner in Meghan's company, and it's a big discovery model for us right now," said Sarandos.
Cultural impact
Sarandos praised Markle's cultural influence
Sarandos, however, was confident about Markle's potential, saying, "I think Meghan is underestimated in terms of her influence on culture."
He pointed to the world's obsession with Markle, particularly after the 2022 release of the Harry & Meghan docuseries.
"The shoes she was wearing sold out all over the world. The Hermes blanket that was on the chair behind her sold out everywhere in the world," Sarandos said.
Strategic move
Netflix's strategic involvement with Markle's brand
When asked if Netflix would go deeper than marketing with Markle's brand, Sarandos said, "It's good for marketing and branding. This is all expressions of fandom."
A source close to the production mirrored Sarandos's support and said he "clearly has their back."
Markle and her husband, Prince Harry, signed a $100 million deal with Netflix in 2020, and As Ever will sell a curated collection of home essentials developed by Markle.
Show success
Netflix's commitment to 'With Love, Meghan' and its performance
Despite mixed reviews, Netflix has renewed With Love, Meghan for a second season.
Markle's famous friends helped the first season draw 5,26,000 US households in its first five days, according to data from Samba TV.
However, it was much less popular than Part 1 of the Harry & Meghan docuseries, which attracted 2.1 million US households in approximately the same number of days.
Season 2 details
Prince Harry's absence in 'With Love, Meghan' Season 2
However, reports indicate that Prince Harry won't be part of the second season of With Love, Meghan.
A source told the Daily Mail, "He's not in it. It's her and more friends. More of the same."
The first season mostly saw Markle and her close friends talking about lifestyle topics and home entertaining.
Despite the show facing brutal criticism, it's moving ahead with a second season.