EXCLUSIVE: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle 'Facing Their Most Brutal Trolling Yet' Over Latest Netflix Move
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been hit with intense online criticism after their latest Netflix decision.
April 1 2026, Updated 7:21 p.m. ET
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are facing what insiders have told RadarOnline.com is their "most brutal trolling yet" after announcing a new Netflix polo drama – with critics openly questioning why anyone would "want or need" such a series.
Harry, 41, and Meghan, 44, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, are developing an untitled polo-themed drama through their Archewell Productions company as part of their ongoing first-look deal with Netflix.
Backlash Grows as Critics Question Concept
Archewell Productions is said to develop a series for a Netflix deal about polo.
The scripted series, written by Francisca X Hu, will center on rival polo teams and their families in Wellington, Florida – home to one of the sport's most prominent US hubs.
The project follows the couple's previous Netflix ventures, including the documentary Polo, which ran for a single season in 2024, as well as Harry & Meghan and With Love, Meghan.
A source close to the couple told us: "This news has prompted the most brutal wave of trolling Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have easily faced in a long time, with people openly saying no one wants a polo drama or feels there is any need for it.
"The criticism has been relentless, with a lot of commentary suggesting the concept feels out of touch and difficult for audiences to connect with."
Another insider said: "Comments are rife online, and within the showbiz industry, that the idea has been met with disbelief, and that has amplified the backlash in a way that neither of them expected."
Industry Support Clashes With Public Skepticism
Prince Harry and Meghan faced brutal trolling after their announcement.
The announcement has sparked widespread reaction across social media and entertainment circles, where some commentators have questioned the appeal of a drama centered on a niche, elite sport.
Others have pointed to the couple's previous projects, arguing the new series may struggle to capture the same level of attention as their earlier, more personal content.
Despite the criticism, Netflix executives have publicly reaffirmed their commitment to working with Harry and Meghan.
Bela Bajaria said: "We still have a relationship with them. We have movies in development with them. We have an amazing doc with them."
She added: "They have things in development on the TV and film side. Deals come and go all the time, and we don't renew so many deals, those just don't get as much press for obvious reasons. There's no juicy story there."
New Projects Continue Amid Brand Transition
Meghan’s brand As Ever moved into an independent phase.
The new drama forms part of a broader slate of projects under development, including film adaptations such as The Wedding Date and Meet Me at the Lake.
Harry and Meghan's current arrangement with Netflix follows the conclusion of their previous five-year contract, which ended last year, though both sides have indicated the partnership remains active.
At the same time, Meghan's lifestyle brand As Ever has recently moved into an independent phase after Netflix ended its financial backing.
In a statement, a spokesperson said the brand was "ready to stand on its own," while the streaming service described its involvement as part of an intended initial launch phase.
Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos has previously defended Meghan's cultural impact, arguing public fascination with her remains strong.
He said: "I think Meghan is underestimated in terms of her influence on culture… people are fascinated with Meghan Markle. She and Harry are overly dismissed."
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Ted Sarandos defended the cultural influence of the Duchess.
Nevertheless, insiders said the reaction to the polo drama highlights ongoing challenges for the couple as they continue to define their post-royal media identity.
The contrast between industry support and public scepticism has become a recurring theme in their projects, with each new announcement attracting intense scrutiny.
Sources suggest the couple remain committed to expanding their creative portfolio despite the backlash, viewing the series as an opportunity to explore new storytelling territory – as debate continues over whether audiences will embrace the concept.
