Just when it looked like Meghan Markle’s Netflix era was winding down, a fresh twist suggests an alternative development may be underway. Industry chatter had long pointed to a quiet fade, with earlier reports claiming her $100 million deal with the platform not being renewed. But in the world of streaming power plays, nothing is truly off the table. Although Markle was reported to be left empty-handed, she might just be scripting a surprise comeback with Netflix.

As the Duchess of Sussex’s ongoing five-year agreement with Netflix approaches its end, new speculation suggests Markle may be negotiating a new deal.

Renewal buzz gains traction about Meghan Markle’s Netflix future

According to a Daily Mail source, Netflix and Meghan Markle are engaged in negotiations for a sophomore contract ahead of their partnership’s expiry in September. The streaming giant, per the outlet, has decided to draft a new contract for the Suits alum worth £73 million ($98 million), amid swirling reports last week that suggested it was not interested in doing business with either Markle or Prince Harry anymore. However, the Daily Mail today revealed that the planned second season of With Love, Meghan will be the first title to drop on Netflix under their renewed agreement, despite the first season of the show not performing well in terms of viewership.

Prince Harry’s two documentaries for Netflix, titled Polo and Live to Lead, respectively, also failed to bring in viewers, thus putting the streamer in a difficult position regarding renewing the contract with the ex-royal couple. However, it is now said to be set for a second chance. “Make no mistake — a deal is being worked through as we speak,” the Daily Mail source said. What made Netflix give their deal with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry another go, though?

The answer to Netflix’s reconsideration of the Sussexes might lie in strategy, star power, and unfinished business.

New momentum builds as Netflix reengages Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on talks

A new deal with Netflix is often contingent on the intellectual properties finding a place in the top three shows on the platform. As mentioned earlier, Meghan Markle’s production for the streamer was nowhere close to that benchmark. However, a renewed deal is still reported to be in place between her and the platform, for which the Daily Mail tipster interestingly had an explanation. The individual pointed out how Netflix not only houses With Love, Meghan but also acts as an equity partner for it, which made it unlikely for them to drop Markle. “It serves them to promote her and her lifestyle brand,” the source said.

Prince Harry, however, is reported not to return to Netflix, as he is more focused on his charity work. Well, while reports have emerged from sources, only time will tell if Netflix and Meghan Markle — whose With Love, Meghan part two is set for a fall release — engage in business yet again, and how the new ride for them unfolds if speculations actually materialize.

What are your thoughts on Meghan Markle and Netflix being in talks for a second deal? Let us know in the comments.