Harry & Meghan: The Ultimate Netflix Watchlist

Hey guys! If you're anything like me, you've been absolutely glued to the screen watching Harry & Meghan's docuseries on Netflix. Whether you're a longtime royal watcher or just getting into the drama, there's no denying that their story is captivating. But what do you watch after you've binged all the episodes? Don't worry, I've got you covered. I've curated the ultimate Netflix watchlist to keep you entertained while you process everything you've learned about Harry and Meghan. These shows and movies explore themes of royalty, media scrutiny, love against all odds, and finding your own path – all topics that resonate deeply with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's journey.

Delving into Royal Life: More Than Just Crowns and Castles

Let's be real, the allure of royalty is undeniable. The opulent palaces, the intricate traditions, and the weight of history – it's all so fascinating! If you're keen to peek behind the curtain and see what life is really like for those born into royal families, these shows are a must-watch. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for the unique pressures and expectations that Harry and Meghan faced, and perhaps even understand their decisions a little better.

• The Crown: Okay, this one's a no-brainer. If you haven't seen The Crown yet, drop everything and start watching now! This historical drama series meticulously chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, from her early days as a young princess to the present day. The show offers a glimpse into the complexities of royal life, the sacrifices required, and the constant struggle to balance tradition with modernity. While it's a dramatization, The Crown is known for its historical accuracy and its ability to humanize the members of the royal family. You'll see how the institution shapes individuals and how individuals, in turn, shape the institution. Pay close attention to the seasons that depict Prince Charles's marriage to Princess Diana – you'll see some striking parallels with Harry and Meghan's experiences with the media and the royal family.
• The Royal House of Windsor: For a more documentary-style approach, check out The Royal House of Windsor. This series uses archival footage and expert interviews to tell the story of the British royal family from World War I to the present day. It's a fascinating look at how the monarchy has adapted to changing times and navigated various crises. You'll learn about the key figures who shaped the modern monarchy and the challenges they faced, providing valuable context for understanding the current state of the royal family. It's a great companion piece to The Crown, offering a more factual perspective on the same events.
• Victoria: If you're interested in a different era of British royalty, Victoria is a fantastic choice. This series follows the early reign of Queen Victoria, a young and headstrong monarch who faced immense pressure to uphold tradition while forging her own path. You'll see her navigate political intrigue, personal relationships, and the challenges of being a female ruler in a male-dominated world. Victoria's story is one of resilience, determination, and finding love in the midst of duty – themes that resonate strongly with Meghan's own experiences.

Under the Spotlight: The Price of Fame and Media Intrusion

One of the biggest takeaways from Harry & Meghan's docuseries is the relentless media scrutiny they faced. The constant invasion of privacy, the fabricated stories, and the racist undertones – it's no wonder they felt the need to step back from their royal roles. If you want to explore the darker side of fame and the impact of media intrusion, these shows and documentaries will definitely give you something to think about.

• Diana: In Her Own Words: This documentary is incredibly powerful because it features Princess Diana speaking in her own voice, through recordings she made in the early 1990s. She talks candidly about her unhappy marriage, her struggles with bulimia, and the intense pressure she faced from the media. It's a heartbreaking and insightful look into the life of a woman who was constantly hounded by the paparazzi and whose every move was scrutinized. You'll see how the media played a significant role in her unhappiness and ultimately contributed to her tragic death. It's impossible to watch this documentary and not feel a deep sense of empathy for Diana and a sense of outrage at the way she was treated.
• Five Came Back: While not directly about royalty, Five Came Back explores the role of filmmakers during World War II and how their work was used to shape public opinion. It highlights the power of media to influence perceptions and the responsibility that comes with that power. This is relevant to Harry and Meghan's story because it shows how the media can be used as a tool to promote certain narratives, even if those narratives are not entirely truthful. Understanding the power of propaganda and the manipulation of information is crucial for understanding the challenges Harry and Meghan faced in trying to control their own story.
• Framing Britney Spears: This documentary examines the conservatorship that Britney Spears was placed under and the media frenzy that surrounded her personal struggles. It highlights the ways in which the media can exploit vulnerable individuals and the long-lasting impact of public shaming. While Britney's situation is different from Harry and Meghan's, there are definitely parallels in terms of the media's obsession with their personal lives and the lack of privacy they were afforded. The documentary raises important questions about mental health, autonomy, and the responsibility of the media to treat individuals with respect and dignity.

Love Against the Odds: Finding Your Own Fairytale

At its heart, Harry and Meghan's story is a love story. They defied expectations, crossed cultural boundaries, and faced immense pressure to be together. If you're a hopeless romantic like me, you'll appreciate these shows and movies that celebrate love in all its forms, especially when it goes against the grain.

• The Princess Bride: Okay, this one's a bit of a classic, but it's a must-watch for anyone who believes in true love. The Princess Bride is a fairy tale with a twist, full of adventure, humor, and unforgettable characters. It's a reminder that love can conquer all obstacles, even those that seem insurmountable. While it's not a realistic portrayal of love, it captures the essence of what it means to fight for someone you care about and to never give up on your dreams. Plus, who doesn't love a good sword fight and a damsel who can rescue herself?
• Crazy Rich Asians: This movie is a fun and lighthearted romantic comedy, but it also touches on some important themes about cultural differences and family expectations. The story follows Rachel Chu, an American woman who travels to Singapore to meet her boyfriend's wealthy family. She quickly discovers that she's an outsider in their world and that she has to work hard to earn their acceptance. Like Meghan, Rachel faces scrutiny and judgment from those who don't understand her background or her values. But she stays true to herself and ultimately wins over the people who matter most. It's a feel-good movie that celebrates diversity and the power of love to bridge cultural divides.
• Loving: Based on a true story, Loving tells the story of Richard and Mildred Loving, an interracial couple who were arrested in 1958 for violating Virginia's anti-miscegenation laws. Their case went all the way to the Supreme Court, which ultimately ruled that laws prohibiting interracial marriage were unconstitutional. Loving is a powerful and moving film about the struggle for equality and the courage of two people who simply wanted to be together. It's a reminder that love is a fundamental human right and that no one should be denied the right to marry the person they love, regardless of their race or background.

Charting a New Course: Finding Your Purpose and Identity

Ultimately, Harry and Meghan's decision to step back from their royal roles was about taking control of their own lives and finding their own purpose. They wanted to use their platform to make a difference in the world and to live life on their own terms. If you're feeling inspired to chart your own course and find your own identity, these shows and movies will give you the motivation you need.

• Eat, Pray, Love: This movie is about a woman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery after a painful divorce. She travels to Italy, India, and Indonesia, where she learns to embrace new experiences, connect with herself, and find inner peace. Eat, Pray, Love is a reminder that it's never too late to start over and that sometimes the best way to find yourself is to get lost in the world. It's a movie about resilience, self-acceptance, and the importance of following your heart.
• Chef: This feel-good movie tells the story of a chef who loses his job and decides to start a food truck. He rediscovers his passion for cooking, reconnects with his son, and builds a successful business on his own terms. Chef is a reminder that it's okay to take risks and to follow your dreams, even if they seem unconventional. It's a movie about creativity, entrepreneurship, and the importance of finding work that you love.
• Brené Brown: The Call to Courage: This Netflix special features Brené Brown, a renowned researcher and author, talking about the importance of vulnerability and courage. She argues that vulnerability is not a weakness, but a strength, and that it's essential for living a wholehearted life. Brown's message is particularly relevant to Harry and Meghan, who have both been open about their struggles with mental health and their decision to step back from their royal roles. Her special is a reminder that it takes courage to be authentic and to live life on your own terms, even when it's difficult.

So, there you have it – the ultimate Netflix watchlist for anyone who's obsessed with Harry & Meghan! These shows and movies will keep you entertained, informed, and inspired as you continue to follow their journey. Happy watching, guys!