The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will provide “epic entertainment” in exchange for their Netflix deal, the streaming service’s co-founder has promised, as he says their programmes are expected to be its “most viewed” content next year. 

Reed Hastings said the Sussexes had been “smart “ in “shopping” their programme-making talents around “all the major companies” before settling with a Netflix deal. 

The couple have previously said they will be creating “impactful content that unlocks action”, in line with their campaigning for gender equality, the environment, and diversity.

In an interview with American business news channel CNBC, Mr Hastings gave a more straight-forward outline of Netflix’s expectations, saying it was going to be “epic entertainment”. 

His assessment provides further insight into the Duke and Duchess’ plans, after critics feared their promise to “shine a light on people and causes around the world” to create “content that informs but also gives hope” sounded worthy but lacking in entertainment value.