Meghan Markle and Prince Harry announced they had signed a multi-year contract with Netflix to produce television programmes ranging from children’s shows to scripted series. The move into TV production is a path that has already been walked by a number of leading royals, including Prince Edward, Prince Charles and Sarah Ferguson.
As far back as 1987, the Queen’s eldest son Prince Edward, took his first steps in production when he organised the royal version of the hit-TV game show It’s A Knockout.
The programme, staged at Alton Towers, attracted 18.3 million viewers and raised more than £1 million for charity.
The Earl of Wessex, funded his own film company, Ardent Productions, in 1993 after dropping out of the Royal Marines.
However, the firm caused a stir in royal and media circles, after he was accused of caching in on his status within the most famous family on Earth.
In 2001, things got worse for Edward who is said to have briefly fallen out with his elder brother Prince Charles, after his Ardent crew was found filming at St Andrews University shortly after Prince William began studying.
The firm would got onto make substantial losses, and in 2009 the firm was dissolved.
In 2009, Fergie, the Duchess of York became was one of the executive producers of the film, The Young Victoria.
The ex-wife of Prince Andrew masterminded the plot behind the film detailing the life of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
The Prince of Wales has also embraced TV and has recently starred in the two-part ITV documentary titled ‘Prince Charles: Inside the Duchy of Cornwall.
The show gave unprecedented access to the heir-to-the-throne and his life managing the £1billion estate.
On Wednesday, Meghan and Harry said they would be focused on producing “inspirational” content for the streaming platform.
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Meghan, who starred in the huge TV drama Suits, which was available on Netflix, prior to meeting Harry, has no plans of returning to acting.
Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos said the couple already have in mind a nature documentary as well as an animated series about inspiring women.
Mr Sarandos added: “We’re incredibly proud they have chosen Netflix as their creative home – and are excited about telling stories with them that can help build resilience and increase understanding for audiences everywhere.”
