Netflix is facing increasing challenges as the production of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s highly anticipated polo documentary encounters significant logistical hurdles. Initially slated for a November release, the documentary now appears to need a miracle to stay on schedule. According to sources close to the production, the project is moving forward, but the complexities of coordinating such a high-profile endeavor are proving to be formidable.

The documentary, centered around the world of polo, relies heavily on Prince Harry’s involvement. However, this means he needs to travel to various countries to interview and interact with polo stars. Meghan, as per usual, prefers not to be separated from him, making their joint travel plans more complicated. With their children in tow or left behind, the logistics become even more challenging.

The coordination of this documentary involves multiple production companies, many of which are juggling other projects, including those under Archewell Productions. Archewell itself is facing its own set of problems, particularly with the halt of their cooking show, which has reportedly infuriated Netflix’s CEO. Viewing the couple’s deal as one of the worst in the company’s history, Netflix is in a desperate move to salvage the situation. They may release a teaser of the polo documentary to gauge public interest using content from the pilot episode.

The entertainment industry is currently at a crossroads, making it a challenging time for the Sussexes to venture into the production game. Unlike industry titans like Tyler Perry, who can afford to keep tight budgets and take calculated risks, Harry and Meghan lack the necessary clout and financial backing. Additionally, their network of allies has significantly dwindled over the past three years for various reasons.

One of the most criticized decisions was Harry’s acceptance of the Pat Tillman Award, a move heavily influenced by Serena Williams’ personal interests to promote a documentary. This decision backfired, casting Serena’s project as a vanity endeavor as she’s preoccupied with other business ventures. Harry’s acceptance of the award at Serena’s insistence has proven to be a strategic misstep.

As Meghan’s birthday approaches, speculation arises that new photos of their children might surface, a tactic often used to generate headlines. Meghan’s rolodex of connections has shrunk, leaving Harry’s better affiliations as their remaining network. The core issue seems to be Meghan’s pervasive influence over Harry’s projects. Many believe that for Harry to succeed, he needs to distance himself from Meghan’s overbearing presence.

The polo documentary, primarily targeted at a niche audience, risks becoming overshadowed by Meghan’s desire to be the focal point. Examples of this dynamic include her prominent role during the Invictus Games, where her presence often overshadowed the event itself. Meghan’s tendency to make every project about her detracts from Harry’s efforts to carve out his own path.

Timing has consistently plagued the couple’s ventures. Every move they make seems ill-timed, undermining their objectives. A prime example is the current predicament. Instead of allowing Harry to focus on the polo documentary, Meghan’s need to be involved complicates production. Similarly, her cooking show remains stalled, contributing to their contractual obligations hanging in the balance.

Netflix’s partnership with Harry and Meghan faces numerous challenges, from production delays to strategic missteps. Harry’s polo documentary, with its already limited audience, is further hindered by Meghan’s insistence on being part of every aspect. The complications surrounding their production efforts highlight a broader issue: the couple’s struggle to find their footing in the entertainment industry.

The fallout from these challenges could have significant implications for both the Sussexes and Netflix. For Netflix, the high-profile nature of their partnership with Harry and Meghan was supposed to be a coup, bringing in subscribers eager to see what the famous couple would produce. However, the repeated delays and complications are turning what should have been a marquee partnership into a source of frustration.

For Harry and Meghan, the stakes are even higher. Their foray into entertainment was intended to establish them as independent, influential figures outside the constraints of royal life. Yet, the constant setbacks and public missteps threaten to undermine their credibility and appeal. If they cannot deliver on their promises, they risk being seen as unable to succeed without the royal institution they sought to leave behind.

As the release date for the polo documentary remains uncertain, the pressure on the Sussexes to deliver grows. The success of this project is not just about their partnership with Netflix; it’s a critical step in proving their viability in the competitive world of entertainment. Only time will tell if they can navigate these challenges and come out on top.