In a surprising turn of events, Argentine polo sensation Nacho Figueras has seemingly thrown Prince Harry under the bus during a recent interview about an upcoming Netflix documentary focused on polo.
Instead of promoting the sport as expected, Figueras took a more candid and freestyle approach, leaving Netflix executives feeling uneasy just weeks before the documentary’s premiere in December.
Initially, excitement surrounded Prince Harry’s venture into documentary filmmaking.
The Duke of Sussex, a lifelong polo enthusiast, was anticipated to provide a unique lens on the sport through his new series aptly titled “Polo.”
However, reports indicate that Harry’s role may not be as prominent as fans had hoped.
The spotlight has shifted to Figueras, often referred to as the “David Beckham of polo,” though he lacks the global recognition that Harry and Meghan Markle possess.
Netflix had high expectations for this project, especially given its ties to the couple’s lucrative $100 million deal with the streaming giant.
Insiders have expressed disappointment that the series appears to center around Figueras rather than showcasing Harry’s star power, which was expected to attract viewers.
One source lamented, “For a show about a sport of kings, polo barely features any royalty.
It’s not the Harry Show; it’s the Nacho Show.”
In his recent interview, Figueras spoke openly about the sport and his friendship with Harry.
However, rather than emphasizing the allure and excitement of polo, he seemed to downplay Harry’s involvement, which could potentially alienate the very audience Netflix hopes to engage.
This has led many to speculate whether Figueras is attempting to distance himself from the royal, perhaps sensing a decline in Harry’s appeal.
The backlash from Figueras’ comments has been swift and severe.
Reports suggest that Netflix executives are feeling frustrated, realizing they may have backed a project that lacks the star power they were banking on.
With Harry’s minimal presence in the documentary, some insiders have described the series as a “nothing burger,” raising concerns about its overall impact.
As the clock ticks down to the release date, the pressure mounts on the Sussexes to deliver a hit.
Their Netflix deal is set to expire next year, and they have faced criticism for previous projects that have been labeled as lackluster.
A Hollywood producer pointed out that aside from their docuseries detailing their exit from royal life, much of what they’ve produced has failed to resonate.
The irony of this situation is striking.
Polo, often dubbed the “sport of kings,” finds itself overshadowed by the very royal who was supposed to elevate it.
Figueras’ decision to go off-script may have been an attempt to carve out his own niche in the sport, but it inadvertently underscores Harry’s waning relevance in the entertainment landscape.
As the documentary’s release approaches, all eyes will be on the unfolding drama surrounding this royal mess.
Figueras’ remarks not only jeopardize Harry’s credibility but also raise significant questions about the future of the Sussex partnership with Netflix.
Will they manage to salvage this project, or will it become yet another example of their struggle to meet expectations?
With the stakes so high, the implications of Figueras’ comments extend beyond just the documentary.