Despite stepping back from their royal responsibilities and relocating to sunny California, the Sussexes have managed to maintain their opulent lifestyle. Among their ventures, Harry and Meghan secured a five-year, $100 million production agreement with Netflix, which led to the release of their documentary, in addition to landing deals with Spotify.
Harry’s highly anticipated memoir, Spare, sold an impressive 1.4 million copies on its first day across the UK, United States, and Canada. The book has been translated into 16 languages globally and is projected to become the best-selling book of 2023. Larry Finlay, managing director of Transworld Penguin Random House, remarked:
“We always knew this book would fly, but it is exceeding even our most bullish expectations.”
After being financially cut off upon leaving the royal family, Harry and Meghan had to find ways to generate income to support their lavish lifestyle. With their recent deals and Meghan’s estimated net worth of around $60 million—alongside the $14 million inheritance from Princess Diana—they appear to be managing well.
Subsequently, the media group operated by Harry and Meghan, Archewell Audio, and Spotify announced the mutual termination of their multi-million dollar contract. This was reportedly due to Spotify’s expectations for more content from Archewell Studios, while Harry and Meghan expressed dissatisfaction with the idea of exclusive distribution to Spotify.
Archewell Audio’s mission is described as “producing programming that uplifts and entertains audiences around the world,” while also “spotlighting diverse perspectives and voices.” Furthermore, they aim to foster “community through shared experience, narratives, and values.”
Bill Simmons, the founder of Spotify—who later sold the company for approximately $200 million and currently serves as Head of Podcast Innovation and Monetization—referred to the Sussexes as “grifters,” stating:
“I wish I had been involved in the…”
Despite the unsuccessful agreement, Harry and Meghan have continued to find ways to support their lifestyle.
Royal commentator Jane Barr noted in her From Berkshire to Buckingham newsletter, as reported by the NY Post, that Meghan would not have been content with the relatively quiet or genuinely independent lives led by William and Harry’s cousins. Meghan aspired to leverage her HRH title to become a prominent figure on the global stage, distinctly separate from royal influence.
Recently, Meghan introduced a luxurious brand named American Riviera Orchard, showcased in a promotional video where she was seen in an elegant mansion preparing food. The inaugural product—a lemon-filled gift basket featuring fresh fruit jam—was distributed to 50 of the Duchess’ closest friends, many of whom are celebrities.
According to her PR expert Mayah Riaz, Meghan could potentially earn seven figures within the first month of the brand’s launch. Currently, the jams have only been sent to a select 50 individuals, indicating they will be exclusive and limited-edition items. Riaz mentioned to The Mirror that a single jar of jam could retail for three figures, which seems plausible based on current trends for celebrity brands.
Riaz further estimated that American Riviera Orchard could generate seven figures for Meghan within a year, with the potential for multi-seven figures by the end of the following year. The product range will include oils, home fragrances, kitchen utensils, and homeware.
The rapid growth of the brand’s Instagram following—which gained hundreds of thousands of followers within the first 24 hours—underscores Meghan’s significant popularity. However, it remains uncertain when the brand will officially launch. Royal expert Tom Quinn indicated that Meghan was dissatisfied with the public’s response to American Riviera Orchard.
Harry firmly believes that his wife is being unjustly targeted by others. He notes that she is particularly sensitive to any negative remarks regarding her opulent lifestyle in the United States, viewing it as a source of admiration rather than criticism.
