Netflix CEO Defends Meghan Markle’s Cultural Impact Amid New Criticism
Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos recently addressed the consistent underestimation and criticism surrounding Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, highlighting her significant cultural influence and reinforcing the streaming giant’s continued commitment to their partnership.
In a candid interview with Variety, Sarandos discussed Meghan’s undeniable influence on popular culture, emphasizing the widespread public interest she effortlessly generates. According to Sarandos, despite criticism that the Duchess frequently receives, Meghan and Prince Harry remain undeniably compelling figures in global entertainment. He notably stated that the couple is “overly dismissed,” pointing out that public fascination with them is often understated in media coverage.
Further elaborating on Meghan’s cultural impact, Sarandos referenced the overwhelming consumer reaction triggered by minor details in the couple’s docuseries, Harry & Meghan. He described how, upon the release of the series trailer, viewers around the world meticulously dissected every detail—from Meghan’s shoes to an Hermès blanket visible in the background—leading these items to quickly sell out. This, according to Sarandos, serves as clear evidence of Markle’s substantial influence, which is frequently overlooked by critics.
Netflix has witnessed significant success through its partnership with Harry and Meghan, starting with their widely-discussed 2022 docuseries Harry & Meghan, which became a major hit for the streaming giant. Meghan’s solo lifestyle series, With Love, Meghan, also debuted strongly in the Netflix top ten globally, showcasing her individual brand appeal apart from her royal status. A second season of her series has already been produced, further solidifying her continued presence on the streaming platform.
In addition to her series, Meghan’s creative reach extends into lifestyle branding. Netflix serves as a passive partner in her lifestyle company, As Ever, which is preparing to launch a curated selection of home essentials in the U.S. market later this spring. The CEO affirmed this partnership, highlighting Netflix’s ongoing support and belief in Meghan’s broad audience appeal and creative vision.
Sarandos’ defense comes at a pivotal time as Meghan continues to face persistent scrutiny over her qualifications and authenticity within the lifestyle and entertainment spaces. Critics often frame Markle’s endeavors as solely relevant due to her royal marriage, an assumption Sarandos rebuked by underscoring the actual, measurable success she achieves independently through viewer engagement and consumer interest.
Ultimately, Sarandos’ comments reaffirm Netflix’s commitment to Markle and her creative pursuits. His observations challenge the narrative that diminishes her cultural value and instead highlight a reality that critics struggle to accept: Markle has cultivated an influential voice, independently resonating with a dedicated audience that eagerly consumes and engages with her content.
Netflix’s ongoing investment in Markle’s future projects—including her lifestyle brand, As Ever—demonstrates their confidence in her ability to attract and maintain global interest, pushing back against narratives that underestimate her presence in mainstream culture.
