Netflix Running the Sussex Show: Meghan Markle Following Streamer's 'Schedule' When It Comes to Timing Brand Launch and New Cooking Program

Meghan Markle is reportedly awaiting Netflix's schedule before launching her much-anticipated lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard. The brand first surfaced in March when the former actress sent numbered, limited-edition jam pots to her celebrity friends as a teaser.

Radio silence has surrounded the much-hyped product line ever since.

However, sources indicate that Netflix's release timeline for Meghan's upcoming cooking and homemaking show, which complements the brand, is causing delays. The show, part of a $100 million dollar deal signed way back in the autumn of 2020, has already been filmed but lacks a confirmed release date.

A senior entertainment executive emphasized the importance of adhering to Netflix's schedule, stating: "Everyone has to abide by Netflix’s schedule these days. They are by far the biggest player in town."

This sentiment underscores the significant influence Netflix holds over the timing of the brand's launch, which is now rumored to be delayed until May of next year.

The source added: "There is literally no point in Meghan doing anything until Netflix is ready to act."

In addition to the scheduling issues, Meghan's brand has reportedly encountered complications with the U.S. Patents and Trademarks Office, which issued "Notices of Irregularities" regarding the brand's trademark applications. A source familiar with the situation clarified that these irregularities are "typical and entirely expected due to discrepancies between U.S. and U.K. classification of goods." The source also mentioned that any fees related to these delays, totaling nearly 9,000, pounds have been paid, ensuring that the process remains on track.

Branding expert Norah Lawlor weighed in on the situation, expressing concerns about the potential impact of the delays.

"From a strategic and branding perspective, if you suggest you are going to launch something, but then four months later nothing has happened, the world moves on," Lawlor said.

However, she also acknowledged that recent global events might allow Meghan to relaunch the brand without much notice, adding: "Fortunately for them, there has been so much going on in the world in the last four months that they could probably relaunch it and no one would really notice."

Despite these challenges, Meghan's team remains optimistic about the brand's future. The show was reportedly filmed near the couple's Montecito mansion in California and is expected to feature Meghan's passions, including cooking, gardening and entertaining.

A Hollywood source confirmed to an outlet that filming "went well, and it is in the can," meaning the project is completed and ready for release as soon as Netflix gives the green light.

Since 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan have only filmed three documentaries in a contract that called for multiple projects across diverse fields of fiction and non-fiction. Only one doc, 2022's autobiographical Harry & Meghan, became a hit on the streamer.

GBN reported on the expert and insider comments.