By Prince Harry’s upcoming Netflix project, “Heart of Invictus,” has received mixed expectations.
The recent trailer release showcased a more mature and engaging approach by the Duke of Sussex, with strong production values and an intriguing narrative. However, royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams expressed doubts about whether this new offering could replicate the same level of interest and hype generated by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s previous docuseries, “Harry & Meghan.”
Fitzwilliams believes that “Heart of Invictus” might face challenges in attracting a massive audience due to its lack of sensational content. He said, “This is likely to be a constructive and interesting documentary. It is, however, difficult to see it attracting a large audience.”
Considering the couple’s recent setbacks, such as the underwhelming performance of their Spotify deal and their prior Netflix project “Live to Lead,” they are under pressure to deliver successful content for Netflix. “Heart of Invictus” holds a special significance as a deeply personal project for Prince Harry.
Fitzwilliams also noted that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle need to explore alternative ways to capture audiences’ attention, as they have exhausted their approach of using the royal family as a topic for profit. Their previous documentary, “Harry & Meghan,” released in December, achieved high rankings on Netflix but also attracted criticism for potential overexposure and perceived hypocrisy.
The first project resulting from the Netflix deal with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, “Heart of Invictus,” will finally premiere on August 30. This five-part documentary series follows international athletes competing in the Invictus Games, an event Prince Harry founded in 2014 for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women. Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, serves as an executive producer and will appear on-camera in the series.
Meghan Markle, although not an executive producer, is part of the project through their production company, Archewell Productions, which signed a multi-year deal with Netflix in 2020. This marks their third project for Netflix, following “Harry & Meghan” and “Live to Lead.”
In addition to their Netflix ventures, the couple previously had a podcast deal with Spotify, which ended after producing only one series. Meghan Markle has also signed with the talent agency WME, which will work on building her global endeavors.
Meanwhile, “Suits,” the show that initially brought Meghan Markle fame as an actor, recently became the most-watched streaming show on both Netflix and Peacock, experiencing a resurgence in popularity.
“Heart of Invictus” offers an intimate look at the journey of competitors, all military service members who have faced life-changing injuries or illnesses, as they prepare for the Invictus Games in The Hague. The docuseries highlights their training and shares powerful stories of resilience and hope.
