More Harry and Meghan? Just what nobody asked for

The Sussexes have signed a new deal with Netflix having produced a run of forgettable programmes over the last few years. It's hard to understand the appeal

- By Fiona Sturges

These are difficult times for streaming platforms. With Netflix, Disney and co locked in a crowded race for our eyeballs, some creative thinking is required to stay ahead of the competition.

But is it creative thinking, or simply a terrible case of amnesia, that has led Netflix to ink a new film and television deal with Archewell Productions, the company founded by Montecito's prime content-shovellers, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex?

Contrary to reports that Harry and Meghan's previous $100m (£74m) contract with the streaming giant would not be renewed, this new agreement is a multiyear, first-look deal that gives Netflix first dibs on any new projects from the couple. To which the only reasonable response is: did they not watch last year's With Love, Meghan, a lifestyle show so vapid and twee, the casual viewer might have mistaken it for a satire on influencer culture?

Whether this new deal is a coup for the Sussexes is a matter of interpretation. That Netflix will be at liberty to reject their royal offerings certainly constitutes a downgrade on their previous agreement. And though the money involved hasn't been disclosed, it's likely a reduction on last time, to reflect the trickier market. Nonetheless, Netflix is apparently keen to keep the pair on its books. In a statement this week, the Duchess said she and her husband were looking forward to creating “thoughtful content across genres that resonates globally and celebrates our shared vision”. Or shared delusion, perhaps.