Meghan Markle under pressure facing 'fierce competition' over make or break Netflix show

Meghan Markle could be about to relaunch herself in a big way, but she must be prepared to face stiff competition.

By Catherine Meyer-Funnell, Royal Reporter based in London

Meghan Markle possibly smokes during Netflix documentary

Meghan Markle may have finished filming her new Netflix cooking show, but she will have some "fierce competition" to contend with, a brand expert has stated.

She and Prince Harry signed their deal with the streaming platform back in 2020 and have since produced a number of programmes, however they have yet to match the success of their 2022 self-titled series.

The cooking project does not yet have a title, but is thought to be produced in conjunction with Meghan's new lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard.

It is being produced by The Intellectual Property Corporation, part of Sony Pictures Television, and although it does not have a release date it will "celebrate the joys of cooking, gardening, entertainment and friendship".

Andrew Bloch, PR guru and founder of Andrew Bloch & Associates, claimed Meghan’s new show is "too important to fail", but there are still challenges ahead.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Royal news Join us on WhatsApp

Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

Meghan Markle laughing

Meghan Markle is launching a new TV show (Image: Getty)

Mr Bloch told Fabulous: "All eyes will be on Meghan’s new show delivering big numbers for Netflix.

"They signed a $100 million (£77.7 million) deal with Harry and Meghan in 2020 and are looking for a return on their investment.

"No doubt Netflix will promote the show heavily, however, will be acutely aware of the fierce competition in the cooking and home space.

"This combined, with the fact that this is a new avenue for Meghan and comes off the back of Harry’s Spare backlash, will add to the pressure."

Harry and Meghan eat in Morocco

Meghan loves to cook (Image: Getty)

The brand expert highlighted what a "huge opportunity" this show is for the Duchess of Sussex and she will be aware that she "needs to nail" it.

He added: "It aligns perfectly with her personal interests as well as that of her household products brand, American Riviera Orchard, and her entry into the culinary world.

"This project is too important to fail, and no doubt Meghan and Netflix will combine forces to ensure it doesn’t."

Talent agent and PR expert Carla Speight claimed that if the show does well it could open a lot of doors for Meghan.

Harry and Meghan at Platinum Jubilee

Meghan may be hoping to relaunch the Sussex brand (Image: Getty)

Ms Speight told the publication: "Meghan has a great opportunity, unlike any she’s had before with this new show.

"She can finally show the world who she is behind the glam, the gossip and the speculation. We’ve only ever met the Duchess as a Hollywood star and as the Duke’s fiancee, and now wife.
"Being able to see Meghan in an authentic and intimate setting gives her the opportunity to showcase who she is and why Harry fell in love with her in the first place.

"Off the back of this show, there will be a wealth of opportunities for them."

Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?