Viewers Skip Meghan’s Netflix Debut as Suits Still Rules the Charts

Meghan Markle’s lifestyle series “With Love, Meghan” has logged just 5.3 million global views since its March debut, ranking 383rd among Netflix titles released in 2025 and slipping out of the service’s Top 10 after six days. Despite the modest showing—and a critical score of 37 percent on Rotten Tomatoes with a 3.2 IMDb rating—Netflix quietly renewed the eight‑episode show for a second season ahead of launch.

Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria said in February that the streamer remains “excited” about its partnership with Archewell Productions, describing Markle’s series as “great” and hinting at additional projects in development. Insiders note the deal, originally touted at up to $100 million, is closer to $20 million and is scheduled to expire next September, adding pressure for a hit as the couple trims staff costs.

While the new show struggles, archival episodes of “Suits,” the USA Network legal drama that introduced Markle to many viewers, remain a powerhouse. Nielsen’s June report lists the acquired series among the month’s most‑watched programs, benefiting from what analysts call “the Netflix effect.” The dramedy shattered records in 2023 with 57.7 billion minutes streamed and continues to appear in weekly Top 10 charts in 2025, underscoring the enduring draw of licensed content.

Netflix’s latest earnings release showed revenue up 15.9 percent year‑over‑year, driven largely by tent‑pole originals and advertising growth, but executives avoided questions about the Sussexes’ performance on the call. Industry observers argue that the streamer can absorb a slow‑starting lifestyle series so long as rewatchable library titles like Suits keep engagement high, especially among U.S. audiences who skew toward acquired programming.

Critical voices remain unconvinced. Trade columns point to the series’ rapid audience drop‑off and a perception of curation over candor, though the companion “As Ever” jam line reportedly sold out within hours of its soft launch, offering a sliver of brand momentum. For now, Netflix is pressing ahead; cameras are expected to roll on season two in California this autumn, with production insiders promising tweaks aimed at boosting authenticity and broadening appeal.