Why Meghan Markle’s Influence Is Netflix’s Biggest Bet Yet?

In a world where celebrity influence is often scrutinized and debated, Meghan Markle stands out as a polarizing yet undeniably impactful figure. Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos recently made headlines by publicly defending the Duchess of Sussex, asserting that she is “underestimated in terms of her influence on culture” and that she and her husband, Prince Harry, are “overly dismissed” by critics. This bold statement has reignited discussions about Meghan’s role not only as a public figure but also as a cultural phenomenon whose reach extends far beyond the royal spotlight. From selling out products featured in their Netflix content to shaping global conversations, Meghan’s influence is proving to be a force that cannot be ignored. But why does Netflix continue to champion her, and what does this say about her enduring power in the entertainment and cultural spheres?

The Power of Meghan’s Influence

Ted Sarandos, one of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry, didn’t mince words when he spoke about Meghan’s impact. His defense of her comes at a time when the former actress-turned-royal-turned-producer continues to face criticism from various corners. Yet, Sarandos emphasized that Meghan’s ability to drive cultural trends is unparalleled. Whether it’s a dress she wears in a Netflix docuseries or a product she casually mentions, the “Meghan Effect” is real and measurable. Items featured in content produced by Meghan and Harry’s Archewell Productions often sell out globally within hours, a testament to her ability to shape consumer behavior and set trends.

This phenomenon isn’t new. Even during her time as a working royal, Meghan’s fashion choices sparked global demand, with brands reporting skyrocketing sales after she was spotted wearing their designs. From sustainable fashion labels to high-end designers, her endorsements—intentional or not—carry significant weight. Sarandos pointed to this as evidence of her cultural relevance, noting that dismissing her influence is not just shortsighted but also ignores the data. In an era where influencers are meticulously tracked for their ROI (return on investment), Meghan’s ability to move markets is a clear indicator of her star power.

Netflix’s Strategic Partnership with the Sussexes

Meghan and Harry’s multi-year deal with Netflix, signed in 2020, has been a cornerstone of their post-royal career. The partnership has produced high-profile projects like their docuseries Harry & Meghan, which broke viewership records, and other upcoming ventures under their Archewell Productions banner. Sarandos’s vocal support for Meghan underscores Netflix’s commitment to this partnership, which has proven lucrative despite the controversies surrounding the couple.

Critics have often questioned the value of the Sussexes’ deal with Netflix, pointing to the relatively small number of projects released so far. However, Sarandos’s comments suggest that the streaming giant sees long-term potential in Meghan and Harry’s ability to draw audiences. The Harry & Meghan docuseries, for instance, didn’t just attract viewers; it sparked global conversations about race, privilege, and the monarchy. This kind of cultural impact aligns perfectly with Netflix’s goal of producing content that resonates on a global scale.

Moreover, Meghan’s unique position as a biracial American woman who married into the British royal family gives her a perspective that resonates with diverse audiences. Her ability to connect with viewers from different backgrounds is a key asset for Netflix, which is constantly seeking to expand its global subscriber base. By backing Meghan, Netflix is betting on her ability to bridge cultural divides and create content that speaks to a wide range of viewers.

The Critics and the Controversy

Despite her influence, Meghan remains a lightning rod for criticism. Detractors argue that she and Harry have capitalized on their royal connections while distancing themselves from the monarchy’s traditions. Some have dismissed their Netflix projects as self-serving or overly focused on personal grievances. Sarandos’s defense directly challenges these narratives, framing Meghan as a trailblazer who is unfairly underestimated.

The controversy surrounding Meghan often overshadows her accomplishments. Before her marriage to Harry, she was a successful actress, best known for her role in Suits. She was also an advocate for women’s rights and racial equality, using her platform to highlight issues like gender parity and education access. Her transition from Hollywood to royalty and now to a global media figure has been marked by both admiration and scrutiny. Yet, Sarandos’s comments suggest that Netflix sees her as more than a celebrity—they see her as a cultural influencer with the power to shape narratives and drive change.

The “Meghan Effect” in Action

One of the most tangible examples of Meghan’s influence is her impact on consumer behavior. When Meghan and Harry’s docuseries aired, products featured in the show—ranging from clothing to home decor—saw a surge in demand. Retailers reported sell-outs within hours, with some brands struggling to keep up with the sudden spike in orders. This phenomenon, dubbed the “Meghan Effect,” mirrors the “Kate Effect” seen with the Princess of Wales, but Meghan’s influence has a distinctly global and multicultural reach.

For example, a sustainable fashion brand featured in one of their Netflix episodes reported a 300% increase in website traffic within 24 hours of the episode’s release. Similarly, a skincare product Meghan mentioned in an interview saw its sales quadruple overnight. These examples highlight her ability to drive consumer trends, a power that few celebrities can match. For Netflix, this translates into a unique opportunity to leverage her influence for branded content and product placements, further amplifying the value of their partnership.

Why Netflix Stands by Meghan

Sarandos’s defense of Meghan isn’t just about her cultural influence—it’s also a strategic move to protect one of Netflix’s most high-profile partnerships. The streaming giant operates in a competitive landscape where content is king, and Meghan and Harry’s ability to generate buzz is a significant asset. Their projects don’t just attract viewers; they spark debates, trend on social media, and keep Netflix in the headlines.

Additionally, Meghan’s focus on storytelling aligns with Netflix’s mission to produce meaningful, impactful content. Whether it’s through documentaries, scripted series, or unscripted shows, Meghan and Harry have expressed a commitment to telling stories that matter. Their upcoming projects are rumored to include a mix of scripted dramas, documentaries, and even children’s programming, all of which align with Netflix’s diverse content strategy.

The Broader Implications

Meghan’s influence extends beyond fashion and consumer trends. Her work with Netflix has the potential to reshape conversations about race, mental health, and gender in the media. By producing content that tackles these issues head-on, she is carving out a space for herself as a thought leader in the entertainment industry. Sarandos’s support signals that Netflix is fully invested in this vision, recognizing that Meghan’s influence is not just about sales but about sparking meaningful dialogue.

As the Sussexes continue to build their media empire, their partnership with Netflix will likely remain a cornerstone of their efforts. Sarandos’s comments suggest that the streaming giant is prepared to weather any criticism in order to maintain this relationship. For Meghan, this unwavering support is a validation of her vision and a reminder that her influence—however underestimated—continues to resonate on a global stage.

Conclusion

Meghan Markle’s journey from actress to royal to global influencer has been anything but conventional. Despite the controversies and criticisms, her ability to shape culture, drive consumer trends, and spark conversations is undeniable. Netflix’s continued support, as articulated by co-CEO Ted Sarandos, underscores her value as a cultural force. Whether through sell-out products or record-breaking viewership, Meghan’s impact is clear, and her partnership with Netflix is poised to redefine what it means to be a modern influencer. As the world watches her next move, one thing is certain: underestimating Meghan Markle is a mistake that ignores the power of her voice and the reach of her vision.