Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, is set to bring the high-stakes world of professional polo to a global audience with his new Netflix documentary series, 'POLO,' premiering this December. The series, produced by Archewell Productions and Boardwalk Pictures, aims to provide viewers with an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the fast-paced and competitive nature of elite polo.
The announcement, made by Netflix on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), was accompanied by a selection of still photos that offer a glimpse into the series' content. These images showcase the intensity of the sport, featuring polo players in action and scenic views of polo grounds, setting the stage for what promises to be an immersive viewing experience.
Filmed primarily at the US Open Polo Championship in Florida, 'POLO' seeks to challenge the sport's reputation for glamour by delving into the grit, dedication, and competitive spirit required to compete at the highest level. This approach could potentially reshape public perception of polo, often viewed as an exclusive pastime of the elite, by highlighting the athleticism and commitment of its players.
The series is part of a broader multi-year deal between Netflix and Archewell Productions, the company founded by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. This partnership has already yielded several successful projects, including 'Harry & Meghan,' 'Live to Lead,' and 'Heart of Invictus.' The continued collaboration between the streaming giant and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex underscores the couple's influence in the entertainment industry since stepping back from royal duties in 2020.
Prince Harry's involvement in the series goes beyond his role as an executive producer. His long-standing passion for polo and his experience playing in charity matches, including those benefiting Sentebale, the charity he co-founded, lend authenticity and depth to the project. This personal connection to the sport could provide viewers with unique insights and perspectives not typically available to the general public.
The involvement of Miloš Balać as showrunner, known for his work on 'Welcome to Wrexham,' suggests that 'POLO' will likely employ a similar documentary style that blends entertainment with informative content. This approach could make the series appealing to both polo enthusiasts and newcomers to the sport.
Nacho Figueras, a renowned polo player and close friend of Prince Harry, has expressed enthusiasm for the project. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Figueras drew parallels between Prince Harry's dedication to the series and his commitment to charitable causes. This endorsement from a respected figure in the polo world adds credibility to the project and hints at the level of access and insight viewers can expect.
The timing of 'POLO's release coincides with a growing trend of sports documentaries that offer behind-the-scenes access to athletes and competitions. By focusing on a sport that is less mainstream than football or basketball, the series has the potential to carve out a unique niche in this popular genre.
As 'POLO' prepares to make its debut on Netflix, it stands poised to offer a fresh perspective on a centuries-old sport. By showcasing the dedication, skill, and passion of elite polo players, the series may inspire a new generation of enthusiasts and broaden the sport's appeal. Moreover, it represents another significant step in Prince Harry's post-royal career, further establishing his role as a producer of compelling content with global appeal.
