Early Reactions to POLO Documentary Suggest a Missed Opportunity for the Sussexes
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s latest Netflix venture, POLO, has received scathing early reviews, with critics and former friends dismissing the project as “tacky” and “cringey” before its release on December 10, 2024.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, executive producers of the documentary on the elite sport, face mounting criticism that the project misses the mark. A former friend of Harry told The Daily Beast: “It’s hilarious, but not in a good way. It’s so tacky and cringey; it captures all the worst aspects of polo. I watched it in appalled hysterics.”
Another ex-friend noted that while the negative feedback may stem from strained personal ties, the documentary failed to showcase the sport’s inclusivity. “Polo today features a mix of riders from diverse backgrounds, not just wealthy elites,” the source explained. “This show could have highlighted that, but it’s a missed opportunity.”
A senior Hollywood executive also weighed in, suggesting the project lacks creativity and might struggle to capture viewers’ interest, calling it “unimaginative.”
As part of their $100 million Netflix deal, the Sussexes had early success with Harry & Meghan but have faced increasing challenges in delivering impactful content. With POLO already under scrutiny, the couple’s ability to maintain relevance in the streaming landscape is being called into question.
