Tailgating and Tiaras: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Defend 'Pompous' Polo's Down-to-Earth Side in 'Brutally Mocked' New Docuseries
Prince Harry, 40, and Meghan Markle, 43, have unveiled their latest Netflix docuseries, aptly titled POLO. This five-episode venture delves deep into the U.S. Open Polo Championship in Wellington, Fla., aiming to dispel the notion that polo is merely a pastime for the elite.
However, any Sussex hopes for breaking down "stereotypes" surrounding "the sport of kings" didn't go over so well with fans and critics.
Showrunner Miloš Bala?, renowned for his work on Welcome to Wrexham, shared insights into the couple's vision, stating: "They have so much knowledge about the sport, but also an understanding that we’re trying to bring new people into this world."
The Duke of Sussex, a longtime seasoned polo player, brings authenticity to the series, while Meghan offers a fresh perspective, emphasizing the sport's community spirit.
Bala? noted, "Harry’s expertise and Meghan’s outsider view combined to create a narrative that’s both informative and inviting."
The series showcases renowned players like Adolfo Cambiaso and Nacho Figueras, highlighting their dedication and the familial bonds within the polo community.
A standout moment for many features Meghan conversing fluently in Spanish with Cambiaso, reflecting on her time in Argentina — but "depth was nowhere to be found in this boring waste of money," one X commenter summarized.
Beyond the sport's glamor, POLO delves into the rigorous training and sacrifices players endure, challenging the Pretty Woman stereotype of the sport as merely a social event memorably depicted in the 1990 Julia Roberts and Richard Gere rom-com.
Bala? emphasized, "We wanted to show that polo is not just about champagne and socializing; it’s a sport that requires immense dedication."
The docuseries also touches on the couple's personal connection to polo. In the final episode, Meghan is seen cheering for Harry during a match benefiting his charity, Sentebale. This affectionate exchange after the game "adds a personal touch, showcasing their genuine passion for the sport and its causes," a Sussex insider observed.
Critics have questioned the series' appeal, given polo's association with wealth. Royal expert Phil Dampier remarked, "It’s hard to see how a documentary about a sport only wealthy people play is going to have mass appeal."
Despite skepticism, Harry and Meghan remain committed to broadening polo's appeal. Their hands-on involvement in the production reflects their dedication to presenting a multifaceted view of the sport. Bala? praised their collaboration, stating, "They were wonderful to work with, bringing passion and insight to the project."
POLO is now streaming on Netflix, with one synopsis of the doc stating the show is "inviting viewers to explore the sport's intricacies and the stories of those who live it."
The summary concluded, "Through this docuseries, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex aim to redefine polo's image, presenting it as a sport of grit, dedication, and community."
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The New York Post reported on the expert and insider comments.
