Prince Harry’s new Netflix show about the world of professional polo may risk alienating his fanbase, according to Newsweek’s chief royal correspondent. The panel discussion with U.K.’s Sky News anchor Kay Burley highlighted concerns that the elite world of polo could clash with the image of Harry and Meghan Markle as progressive and anti-elite figures. The announcement of the show comes as Harry and Meghan’s Archewell Productions company revealed plans for two new series on Netflix, with one focusing on Meghan’s interests in gardening and cooking, and the other on Harry’s passion for polo.
Royston pointed out that polo is a significant part of the royal family’s lifestyle, with many members engaging in the sport. However, the exclusivity and high cost associated with polo may create tension with Harry and Meghan’s fanbase, which includes young progressives who are critical of wealth and class exclusivity. Polo is not only an expensive sport to participate in but also has strong ties to social class, often providing opportunities for the rich and famous to socialize while raising money for charity. Since moving to the U.S. and distancing themselves from the monarchy, Harry and Meghan have cultivated an image appealing to a more egalitarian and progressive audience, making the focus on polo a potentially risky move.
Polo is a unique sport played on horseback, with two teams competing to score points by hitting a ball through goals at each end of the arena. The game consists of seven-minute sections called chukkas, with up to six chukkas in a match. Players often use multiple ponies throughout the game, changing between chukkas. The sport’s association with the royal family, including figures like Prince Philip, King Charles III, and Prince William and Harry, has contributed to its high-profile status. Harry and Meghan recently attended a polo event in Florida, where Harry played on a team that raised money for his charity supporting youth in Lesotho and Botswana.
Archewell Productions’ polo series aims to provide viewers with a closer look at the reality of the sport beyond its social aspects. The show promises to showcase the passion and dedication of professional polo players, offering unprecedented access to behind-the-scenes activities. While polo is often seen as a glamorous and exclusive sport, the series plans to shed light on the hard work and determination required to compete at the highest level. The show is currently in the early stages of production, with no confirmed release date.
As Newsweek’s royal reporter, James Crawford-Smith will continue to cover the developments surrounding Prince Harry’s Netflix show and its potential impact on his fanbase. The discussion about the show’s focus on polo reflects broader conversations about wealth, privilege, and class exclusivity, which resonate with younger generations increasingly critical of entrenched social hierarchies. Newsweek remains committed to challenging conventional wisdom and seeking common ground, even in discussions about the world of professional polo and its implications for Prince Harry’s public image.
