The first three episodes of Harry & Meghan have been must-see TV in the UK and Netflix has confirmed it to be the nation’s most popular TV series of 2022.
As per BARB, the official television ratings agency, the first episode had more than 2.4 million views on its release day. The second and third episodes had 1.5 million and 800,000 views, respectively. Previously, the 2022 record was held by The Crown series five premiere, which came in at 1.1 million views. It is worth mentioning that these figures are only inclusive of those who watch Netflix on TV sets and were supplied by the independently audited overnights.tv.
Co-produced by Archewell and directed by Liz Garbus, the series posits itself as an indictment against the British media. The first three episodes cover the nascent stages of the relationship between Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, up to right before their 2018 wedding. The documentary is comprised of interviews with friends and family as well as other journalists and historians. Additionally, there are video diaries filmed by both Harry and Meghan. No interviews from the royal family were included.
Discussions within the series revolve not just around their own personal story, but the role of British media and its effect on the couple as well as the UK as a whole. Additionally, there have been several important points made about the prevalence of racism in the United Kingdom, some of which has been targeted towards Meghan. The release has dominated headlines and newsrooms in the UK.
The series has had a mixed critical reception so far. The aggregate critic site, Rotten Tomatoes is currently reporting a 50% ‘fresh’ rating. On Thursday, December 15, the final three episodes will air. Additionally, early next year, Prince Harry’s novel, Spare will also be released.
Prince Harry and Meghan’s deal with Netflix was originally signed in September 2020 for an undisclosed sum. However, CBS reports that it is estimated to have been between $100-$150 million.
Words by Jordan Cracknell
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