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Newsweek
12-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Is Meghan Markle's New Netflix Deal a Win For Her?
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have signed a new Netflix deal on different terms, sparking a debate about whether it represents a victory or a loss for the couple. The Duchess of Sussex is preparing to drop the second season of her cooking show With Love, Meghan later in August. And she was this week able to shoot down media rumors that Netflix were going to dump her with the announcement of a new multi-year contract. Meghan Markle during filming of With Love, Meghan season one which was released by Netflix in March 2025. Meghan Markle during filming of With Love, Meghan season one which was released by Netflix in March 2025. Courtesy of Netflix © 2025 Why It Matters The couple's first Netflix deal, signed in September 2020, was worth a reported $100m and covered all projects produced over a five-year period. Its 2022 documentary Harry & Meghan retold the story of their move to the U.S., including their perspective on the royal rift and remains the streamer's most-watched documentary debut. The new arrangement is a "first-look deal" that gives Netflix first refusal on new projects. Some argue securing a second deal is for the couple a win in itself, after press reports suggesting the two sides were parting company. But while its financial terms have not been disclosed, the latest agreement is thought to be considerably less lucrative than the first, leading some to see it as a downgrade. What to Know Meghan said that she and Harry were extending their deal for films and TV shows with Netflix on Monday, saying the couple were inspired to "create thoughtful content across genres that resonates globally, and celebrates our shared vision." U.K. brand and culture expert Nick Ede, who predicted in July that a first-look deal would be the likely outcome of negotiations, said after Monday's announcement: "I see it as a win for Meghan and for Harry to have Netflix, it's still one of the biggest outputters of entertainment, still backing them in this way. "They're still going to have some of their office costs paid for and development costs paid for," he told Newsweek. Alongside the new deal, Meghan and Harry were able to announce a holiday special for With Love, due for release in December, as well as a new documentary, Masaka Kids, A Rhythm Within. The latter is based around an orphanage in Masaka, Uganda, home to what a press release calls "a vibrant, one-of-a-kind community where orphaned children transform hardship into joy, dancing their way toward healing, belonging, and the promise of a brighter future." It is due out later in 2025. Netflix is also an equity partner in Meghan's online shop, As Ever, which sells wine and products like jam, tea and honey featured in her cooking show. "We've got the second season of With Love, Meghan to come out, and we've got the Christmas special and Netflix have got the investment in the actual brand itself," Ede said. "So I don't think this is a fail. It's almost a bit like a natural progression. We know there's no more room for a kiss and tell. "That's what they did at the beginning, that's how they dangled the carrot and why Netflix bit. They haven't got that richness of content to talk about the royal family anymore so of course it's not going to be so fruitful for them anymore but it's a good outcome." While Harry & Meghan was hugely commercially successful, it was criticized for retreading the same ground covered in the couple's exclusive Oprah Winfrey interview, prompting Variety to run the headline: "It's Well Past Time for Harry and Meghan 2.0." Other projects since have been far less controversial—and have not gained the same viewer numbers. The first-look deal reflects the reality that second time around, the couple are unlikely to land a commercial mega-hit of royal bombshell proportions, which would explain why Netflix will not be paying them huge yearly sums, but rather funding specific ideas they consider to be worth the money. And Meghan and Harry have swerved the reputational injury that losing Netflix as a partner would have represented, although Ede argues the pressure is still on to produce great content. "Archewell is... a production company which has big salaries for big people in there who have come up with lots of ideas and... many of those ideas haven't seen the light of day," he said. "It's really important to show some more success, and to work out what success looks like and create content that people really want to see." He pointed to the example of Barak and Michelle Obama, who pivoted to producing shows that were not about their lives, such as 2023 series Leave the World Behind, starring Mahershala Ali, Julia Roberts, Kevin Bacon and Ethan Hawke. "That's what Archewell need to do," said Ede. What People Are Saying Former BBC royal correspondent Jenny Bond, asked whether the Netflix deal was like a phoenix emerging from the ashes for Meghan, replied: "We have to accept that it is us, the media, who created those ashes. There was no statement from Harry and Meghan, no indication at any point, but we all decided that the Netflix deal was dead in the water, so it's one in the eye for all her detractors. "They have won," she added. "Meghan has won and we have to eat humble pie." Eric Schiffer, chairman of Reputation Management Consultants, told Newsweek Meghan's lifestyle rebrand was like a "manufactured Martha Stewart and fans and those that are watching for the first time will cringe. Netflix is about data and the data from what I understand is not good." PR expert Mark Borkowski told the Daily Mail: "Netflix has done a very neat job of pivoting away from two very expensive people who didn't deliver, and they've taken that deal off the table, and they've given them a modest one. "It's not like they're gradually uncoupling—it's a downgrade. Netflix are not going to expose themselves to those budgets again." U.K. satirical show Have I Got News for You posted on X: "Netflix have signed a new deal that gives them 'first refusal' on Harry and Meghan's show ideas, frustrating rival streamers who wanted to have the rights to say no first." Jennie Bond (UK royal expert) : You talk about ashes but I think we have to accept that it is us the media who CREATE THOSE Ashes, There was not statement from Harry and Meghan and no indication at any point but we all decided that the Netflix deal was dead in the water . I... — DejaHudson( Sussex squad)(H&M) 🇧🇸🇧🇸🇧🇸 (@ChanteHudson4) August 12, 2025 What Happens Next Season two of With Love, Meghan is expected to drop later in August, while a holiday special is expected at Christmas. Jack Royston is chief royal correspondent for Newsweek, based in London. You can find him on X, formerly Twitter, at @jack_royston and read his stories on Newsweek's The Royals Facebook page. Do you have a question about Charles and Queen Camilla, William and Kate, Meghan Markle and Harry, or their family that you would like our experienced royal correspondents to answer? Email royals@ We'd love to hear from you.
Newsweek
12-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
WATCH: Meghan Markle Cooking Show Drops S2 Trailer After Deal Renewed
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Meghan Markle has dropped the trailer for season two of her Netflix cooking show With Love, Meghan a day after announcing she has signed a new multi-year deal with the streamer. In the video, released Tuesday, Meghan says: "I love the idea of spending time together and finding new ways to show people you care." The trailer was posted to Netflix's official X account with the message: "The best moments are made to be shared ✨ With Love, Meghan returns on August 26th!" Why It Matters Meghan and Netflix jointly announced their new five-year deal on Monday after reports the Sussexes were going to be axed. The new "first look deal" gives Netflix first refusal on projects but does not guarantee them the sky high sums they got first time around, so all eyes will be on how season two performs and whether it leads to season three getting commissioned. The best moments are made to be shared ✨ With Love, Meghan returns on August 26th! — Netflix (@netflix) August 12, 2025 What to Know Meghan and Prince Harry first signed to Netflix in September 2020 for five years in a mega bucks deal that appeared to secure their financial future after quitting the palace earlier that year. Their first show, a biopic retelling the story of their exit from the palace, was a ratings hit but sparked major controversy due to swipes at Harry's family. Meghan Markle smiles during filming of the first season of With Love, Meghan wihich dropped on Netflix in March 2025. Meghan Markle smiles during filming of the first season of With Love, Meghan wihich dropped on Netflix in March 2025. COURTESY OF NETFLIX Since then, their projects have not drawn the same sky high ratings, and With Love season one got brutal reviews. The Sun and People had both reported the deal would not be renewed, but the duchess got one over on the media when she signed a new "first look deal" announced on Monday. The contract means Netflix has first refusal on projects Meghan and Harry pitch but are not obliged to pay them the major yearly sums dished out during the original five-year deal. It will give Netflix the option to significantly reduce the cost of its partnership with Harry and Meghan without terminating the relationship altogether. And that's important for both sides because Netflix is an equity partner in Meghan's lifestyle business As Ever, where she sells jams, flower sprinkles, other produce and more recently wine. That means it takes a cut of her profits. More than that though, Ted Sarandos, Netflix co-CEO, said in March the company is using As Ever as a "discovery model," suggesting it is a test case with lessons learned rolled out across other shows. "We're a passive partner in Meghan's company, and it's a big discovery model for us right now," he told Variety in March. Had they axed the TV deal, they would have dealt a reputational hammer blow to a lifestyle business the success of which they have invested in substantially. It's also hugely important for the Sussexes reputationally after their Spotify multi-year deal fell apart, with executive Bill Simmons firing a parting shot, calling them "f****** grifters." What People Are Saying Meghan said in a statement released to Newsweek Monday: "We're proud to extend our partnership with Netflix and expand our work together to include the As ever brand." "My husband and I feel inspired by our partners who work closely with us and our Archewell Productions team to create thoughtful content across genres that resonates globally, and celebrates our shared vision." Nick Ede, U.K. brand and culture expert, told Newsweek in July that a first look deal would be the best option for both sides: "They've invested a lot into that so they will want to see a return, a massive return. My gut feeling is they will do a first look deal with her." "They will look at the numbers for the new season and see if that does relate to sales, because that's what this is really about. People aren't going to subscribe to Netflix to watch the next Meghan show, so that's done for them from that point of view." What Happens Next Meghan and Netflix on Monday also announced With Love is preparing a festive special due to be broadcast in December. Fans and critics alike will also be keeping a close eye on reviews of the show and whether it does any better than season one. Jack Royston is chief royal correspondent for Newsweek, based in London. You can find him on X at @jack_royston and read his stories on Newsweek's The Royals Facebook page. Do you have a question about King Charles III and Queen Camilla, Prince William and Princess Kate, Meghan and Harry, or their family that you would like our experienced royal correspondents to answer? Email royals@ We'd love to hear from you.
Newsweek
26-04-2025
- Politics
- Newsweek
Trump Has Many 'Alternatives' to Allow Him to Serve Third Term—Steve Bannon
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Prominent right-wing podcaster Steve Bannon said on Friday that President Donald Trump and his team have "many different alternatives" to ensure he serves a third term and can remain president after the 2028 presidential election. Newsweek reached out to Trump's team for comment via email on Saturday morning. Why It Matters Trump and his allies have repeatedly teased the idea of him seeking a third term, despite most legal analysts agreeing that this would violate the U.S. Constitution as all U.S. presidents are limited to two terms in office, with Trump now in his second and final term. Calls for Trump to be allowed to run for a third term follow warnings issued by Democrats during the 2024 campaign that he would rule as an authoritarian once back in the White House. What to Know Bannon, who served as the CEO of Trump's 2016 presidential campaign and as an adviser during his first administration, spoke to NewsNation host Chris Cuomo for an interview on Friday evening. During the discussion, he reiterated his view that Trump will remain president after the 2028 election. Bannon, who founded and hosts the War Room podcast, said proposed tax reform plans from the Trump administration would help him get reelected. "Politically, it's going to help him in his reelect in 2028 which he just put the merchandise up last night," Bannon said, adding he was sending "hats, tees and swag" for Cuomo and his crew in New York. When pressed by Cuomo on how Trump would get around constitutionally mandated term limits for presidents, Bannon said there are options, without getting into specifics. "We have many different alternatives to make sure President Trump on the afternoon of January 2029 is the President of the United States, many different alternatives. And we will roll those out over time," he said. As Bannon noted, the official Trump Store began selling 2028 merchandise this week, including hats and T-shirts. "The future looks bright! Rewrite the rules with the new Trump 2028 t-shirt," says the Trump store listing for the product, which is priced at $36. President Donald Trump speaks to the media as he departs the White House on April 25 in Washington, D.C. Inset: Steve Bannon speaks on stage during The Semafor 2025 World Economy Summit at Conrad Washington... President Donald Trump speaks to the media as he departs the White House on April 25 in Washington, D.C. Inset: Steve Bannon speaks on stage during The Semafor 2025 World Economy Summit at Conrad Washington on April 23 in Washington, D.C. More Shannon Finney/What the Constitution Says About Presidential Term Limits Most legal analysts say there is no constitutional path to a third term for a president. The 22nd Amendment reads: "No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice, and no person who has held the office of President, or acted as President, for more than two years of a term to which some other person was elected President shall be elected to the office of the President more than once." Some have suggested unconventional paths for Trump to get around the Constitution, as repeal of the amendment is believed to be all but impossible given current political dynamics. One idea floated by some is for Trump to be the vice-presidential nominee, and then whoever serves as president could step aside after winning. However, legal analysts believe even this would be constitutionally tenuous and would likely be blocked by the U.S. Supreme Court. Others have warned that Trump could just ignore the Constitution and simply remain in office, with no clear way to force him out. What Trump Has Said About a Third Term In an interview with TIME magazine published on Friday, Trump said there are "some loopholes that have been discussed" to allow him to serve a third term. However, he said he does not "believe in using loopholes." "I have more people begging me to run again, but I haven't looked at even the possibility," he said. In a March 30 interview with NBC News, Trump gave a similar answer when asked about the possibility. "A lot of people want me to do it," the president said. "But, I mean, I basically tell them we have a long way to go, you know, it's very early in the administration." Trump went on to say that he likes "working" and that's he's "not joking" about a possible third term. "But I'm not—it is far too early to think about are methods which you could do it," he said. What People Are Saying House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, when asked in an April 1 press conference about a potential third term for Trump: "There's a constitutional path. You have to amend the Constitution to do it, and that's a high bar." Senator John Curtis, a Utah Republican, to NBC News in March when asked about a possible third Trump term: "I wouldn't have supported a third term for [former President] George Washington," he responded, laughing. "That's a no, yeah." Steve Bannon to NewsNation in March: "I'm a firm believer that President Trump will run and win again in 2028, so I've already endorsed President Trump. A man like this comes along once every century, if we're lucky. We've got him now." Former federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani told Newsweek last month: "Aside from the potential vice president loophole, there is no legal path for Trump to run for a third term. Politically, he doesn't have the votes to repeal the 22nd Amendment, either in Congress or the states." Representative Dan Goldman, a New York Democrat, previously told Newsweek in a January statement: "By now, Donald Trump's pattern is predictable: 'joke' about something unconstitutional or authoritarian; normalize the 'joke'; allow sycophantic Republicans to adopt the 'joke' as a serious idea until it becomes MAGA orthodoxy." What Happens Next? An amendment to the Constitution to allow Trump to run again is unlikely to be approved by Congress. Any constitutional amendment must be passed by a two-thirds majority vote in the House and Senate and then ratified by at least 38 of the 50 U.S. states. Any other "alternatives," as Bannon described them, would likely trigger a significant constitutional crisis.
Newsweek
21-04-2025
- Politics
- Newsweek
Barack Obama Reacts to Pope Francis Death: 'Rare Leader'
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Former President Barack Obama praised Pope Francis as a "rare leader" in a social media post honoring him after his death. Why It Matters Obama and Pope Francis met several times while he was president. Pope Francis, who has led the Catholic Church since 2013, died at the age of 88, the Vatican said on Monday. During his 12-year tenure, the pope frequently weighted in on political matters such as LGBTQ+ rights, climate change, abortion rights and immigration. What to Know Obama paid tribute to Pope Francis in a post to X (formerly Twitter), just hours after his death was confirmed. "Pope Francis was the rare leader who made us want to be better people. In his humility and his gestures at once simple and profound—embracing the sick, ministering to the homeless, washing the feet of young prisoners—he shook us out of our complacency and reminded us that we are all bound by moral obligations to God and one another," Obama wrote. Pope Francis and then President Barack Obama meet on September 22, 2015 at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. Pope Francis and then President Barack Obama meet on September 22, 2015 at Joint Base Andrews, continued: "Today, Michelle and I mourn with everyone around the world – Catholic and non-Catholic alike – who drew strength and inspiration from the Pope's example. May we continue to heed his call to "never remain on the sidelines of this march of living hope." Have Other Presidents Reacted to Francis' Death? President Donald Trump reacted to the news in a post to Truth Social. "Rest in Peace Pope Francis! May God Bless him and all who loved him!" he wrote. Former President Joe Biden wrote in a post to X: "It is with great sadness that Jill and I learned of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. He was unlike any who came before him. Pope Francis will be remembered as one of the most consequential leaders of our time and I am better for having known him." "For decades, he served the most vulnerable across Argentina and his mission of serving the poor never ceased," Biden wrote. "As Pope, he was a loving pastor and challenging teacher who reached out to different faiths. He commanded us to fight for peace and protect our planet from a climate crisis. He advocated for the voiceless and powerless. He made all feel welcome and seen by the Church. He promoted equity and an end to poverty and suffering across the globe. And above all, he was a Pope for everyone. He was the People's Pope - a light of faith, hope, and love." What People Are Saying Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on X: "Millions of people around the world are mourning the tragic news of Pope Francis's passing. His life was devoted to God, to people, and to the Church. He knew how to give hope, ease suffering through prayer, and foster unity. He prayed for peace in Ukraine and for Ukrainians. We grieve together with Catholics and all Christians who looked to Pope Francis for spiritual support. Eternal memory! Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in a statement: "Today I join Canadians and Catholics around the world in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, Bishop of Rome — a shepherd of deep moral clarity, spiritual courage and boundless compassion. From every corner of the globe, the prayers of the faithful go with Pope Francis as he journeys to his eternal rest." United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer on X: "Deeply saddened to hear of the death of His Holiness Pope Francis. His tireless efforts to promote a world that is fairer for all will leave a lasting legacy. On behalf of the people of the United Kingdom, I share my sincerest condolences to the whole Catholic Church." What Happens Next The church has entered a phase known as Sede Vacante, which triggers a sequence of events designed to both honor the deceased pope and prepare for the election.
