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Netflix has firmly denied reports that co-CEO Ted Sarandos refuses to speak with Meghan Markle unless lawyers are present, as representatives for the Duchess and Prince Harry also moved to quash speculation about tensions.
The claims emerged in a recent industry report suggesting the executive had grown frustrated with the couple, who signed a high-profile multi-year deal with Netflix in 2020 after stepping back from royal duties. The partnership was initially billed as a major creative venture under their Archewell Productions banner.
According to unnamed sources, Sarandos had allegedly indicated he would not join a phone call with Markle without legal representation on the line. However, the report noted uncertainty over whether the remark was serious or made in jest.
A Netflix spokesperson swiftly rejected the suggestion, describing it as "absolutely inaccurate." Markle's attorney, Michael J. Kump, echoed that response, stating the assertion was "blatantly false" and insisting the duchess communicates with Sarandos directly and frequently.
Despite the rumors, insiders maintain the relationship between the streaming platform and the Sussexes remains intact. The couple's debut docuseries, Harry & Meghan,
drew record-breaking viewership upon release, while Markle's lifestyle show With Love, Meghan generated mixed reactions across two seasons.
Though the lifestyle series will not return in its original format, Netflix has indicated it may continue as occasional specials. Meanwhile, Archewell is said to have both scripted and unscripted projects still in development.
Additional reports had suggested unease among senior Netflix leadership, including content chief Bela Bajaria. Yet Bajaria publicly praised the Sussexes, describing them as engaged collaborators with a strong global storytelling perspective.
While questions linger about the long-term direction of the partnership, both Netflix and the Sussexes' representatives appear aligned in dismissing claims of any breakdown in communication at the highest level.
