Prince Harry, Meghan Markle sign Netflix deal

LOS ANGELES: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle officially launched their new Hollywood careers after signing a deal with Netflix to produce films and series.

The couple who quit the British royal family and moved to California this year already have multiple projects in development, although Markle has no plans to return to acting.

“Through our work with diverse communities and their environments, to shining a light on people and causes around the world, our focus will be on creating content that informs but also gives hope,” the couple said in a statement to a news agency.

“As new parents, making inspirational family programming is also important to us, as is powerful storytelling through a truthful and relatable lens.”

A nature documentary series and an animated series focused on inspiring women are among the first projects. No financial terms were disclosed but the deal is reported to be multi-year and exclusive to Netflix.

The pair recently moved into a new family home in Santa Barbara after a brief stay in nearby Los Angeles. Their new neighbors include powerful entertainment industry figures including Oprah Winfrey and Ellen DeGeneres.

The couple’s ambitions to produce in Hollywood had long been rumored with reports of meetings taking place in recent weeks with Disney, Apple and NBCUniversal.

Harry recently appeared in Paralympics documentary film “Rising Phoenix” while Markle narrated a wildlife documentary for Disney. The specific details of other projects have not yet been released but the couple is expected to produce scripted series and feature films as well as children’s programming.

Markle and Harry have spoken of their desire to work in California, where they are launching a wide-ranging non-profit organisation named Archewell. Their Netflix project is expected to focus on the same issues.

“Harry and Meghan have inspired millions of people all around the world with their authenticity, optimism and leadership,” said Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s co-CEO and Chief Content Officer.

“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.”