Netflix CEO criticizes Meghan Markle as collaboration with royal family ends

Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos recently unfollowed Meghan Markle and her lifestyle brand, As Ever, on Instagram following the streaming platform’s decision to cut ties with the former royals. Sarandos, who had initially followed Markle when she returned to social media in 2025, has reportedly unfollowed her and As Ever, according to Page Six and the Daily Mail.

In an unexpected turn of events, Sarandos and Netflix’s chief content officer, Bela Bajaria, took this step last month. While Sarandos’ wife, Nicole Avant, still follows Markle on Instagram, she does not follow As Ever. Despite this, Avant and Markle are said to still be friends. Sources also revealed to Page Six that Sarandos never followed Markle or As Ever on Instagram in the first place.

Netflix officially ended its partnership with Meghan and Harry earlier this month, nearly six years after signing a $100 million deal with the couple in 2020. This decision came shortly after the cancellation of Markle’s lifestyle series, “With Love, Meghan,” due to poor ratings. A Netflix spokesperson expressed gratitude for being part of bringing Markle’s vision to life and indicated that she would continue to develop As Ever independently.

Variety later reported that Sarandos was allegedly “fed up” with the Sussexes, claiming he would not speak to Markle without a lawyer present. However, both Netflix and Markle’s attorney denied these claims. Despite cutting ties with As Ever, Netflix still has a partnership with the couple through their Archewell Productions production company.

According to an insider, the deal with Archewell Productions is progressing well, with multiple projects, including scripted and unscripted content, still in development. Bajaria praised both Markle and Harry, despite the reported weariness of the deal. Overall, the royal renegades may have parted ways with Netflix, but their collaboration under Archewell Productions seems to be on a positive trajectory.