Meghan and Harry's New Netflix Polo Drama Amid Streaming Tensions
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are rumoured to be working on a new scripted television drama for Netflix, centred on the glamorous yet contentious world of polo. The project, described as Harry's new "passion project," will reportedly explore the messy dynamics between two rival families leading competing teams, drawing comparisons to Jilly Cooper's hit series Rivals. This development comes despite Harry's 2024 documentary Polo being a ratings disappointment, ranking at 3,436 out of approximately 7,000 shows with only 500,000 global views in mid-2025.
Project Details and Comparisons
The untitled drama is set to be executive produced by the Sussexes and will be written by Francisca X. Hu, a writer known for her work on the modern reboot of Dynasty and Fox's Sleepy Hollow. According to industry reports, the show aims to "widen the scope of what is considered an elitist sport beyond the rich owners and star players," with its narrative unfolding in the high-flying equestrian town of Wellington, Florida. The premise has raised eyebrows among royal fans, given the strained relationship between the Sussexes and the Windsor family, mirroring the tensions depicted in the fictional rivalries.
Netflix Relationship Under Scrutiny
This new project emerges amid significant turbulence in the Sussexes' partnership with Netflix. Recent reports from Variety and other outlets suggest that the streaming giant may be "done" with Harry and Meghan, following the end of their collaboration on Meghan's lifestyle brand, As Ever, and her series With Love, Meghan. Netflix's chief content officer, Bela Bajaria, has publicly dismissed such claims, stating, "I would say don't believe whatever you read." However, insiders have described a cooling in relations, with Netflix boss Ted Sarandos and Bajaria reportedly making private remarks about the couple that were "not complimentary."
Controversies and Denials
Allegations have surfaced regarding Meghan's behaviour during meetings, including claims that she would "disappear" from Zoom calls to signal offence or talk over Prince Harry to "recast his thoughts." These assertions have been strongly denied by the couple's lawyer, Michael J. Kump, who attributed any absences to Meghan's responsibilities as a working mother caring for her young children, Archie and Lilibet. Kump also criticised the reports as "misogynistic characterisation," while Prince Harry has stated it is "categorically false" that his wife would interrupt him. Netflix has similarly denied rumours of a falling-out, with a source noting that Sarandos's wife, Nicole Avant, remains friends with Meghan.
Background and Industry Reactions
The polo drama project follows Harry's earlier involvement in the Polo documentary, which was pitched to Netflix in 2024 but faced criticism for featuring minimal footage of the prince himself. Despite this, the Sussexes have continued to pursue creative ventures, with this new series potentially being the first under their downgraded "first look" deal with the streamer. As the entertainment industry watches closely, the success of this drama could be pivotal in determining the future of Harry and Meghan's Hollywood endeavours, especially in light of recent public appearances, such as Meghan's red carpet return at a charity gala in Los Angeles.
