By Gabriel Princewill-
The BBC has acquired all nine seasons of the critically acclaimed legal drama “Suits” in a deal with NBCUniversal. This announcement comes on the backdrop of the show’s tremendous success on Netflix, where it has captivated audiences worldwide
“Suits” has enjoyed a phenomenal year on Netflix, emerging as the streaming platform’s most-watched acquired show. Alongside “Suits,” the BBC has also obtained rights to the mockumentary “St Denis Medical” and the highly anticipated series continuation of the Best Man films, “The Best Man: The Final Chapters.”
At the heart of “Suits” is the Duchess of Sussex herself, Meghan Markle, who portrays the talented paralegal Rachel Zane. Markle’s portrayal has been central to the show since its inception in 2011, though she departed the series in 2017 following her blossoming romance with Prince Harry.
Set in a bustling New York City law firm, “Suits” follows the journey of Mike Ross, played by Patrick J Adams, a brilliant young man with a photographic memory who bluffs his way into a job as a lawyer despite lacking a formal law degree.
Alongside him is the charismatic and formidable Harvey Specter, portrayed by Gabriel Macht, as they navigate legal complexities while concealing Mike’s secret.
Since its arrival on Netflix last summer, “Suits” has garnered an astounding 57 billion minutes of streaming time, shattering records and solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon.
Meghan Markle herself expressed astonishment at the show’s resurgent popularity during a red carpet interview at Variety’s Power of Women event in November last year. “Is that right?” Markle exclaimed in disbelief at the staggering viewership figures. “But who’s counting?” she added with a touch of humour.
Reflecting on her time on “Suits,” Markle reminisced fondly about her seven-season stint, praising the camaraderie of the cast and crew. “It was great to work on, such a great cast and crew. We had such a fun time,” she remarked.
The BBC’s acquisition of “Suits” marks a significant milestone in the realm of television, showcasing the enduring appeal and global impact of the series.
Some analysts have questioned whether the broadcaster’s decision to purchase the entire series is a sign of their support for their support of the polarising duchess of sussex, others speculating that the controversy surrounding her ongoing rivalry with the British press and the royal family will make the series a hit with the BBC.
Meghan has cut ties with a number of people in her past life over the years , including her father Thomas Markle and former BFF Jessica Mulroney), leading to some joking her old friends have been ‘Markled’.
When the Sussexes experienced another big life change and moved to Montecito, California, to start a new life, Meghan gained a new pool of friends.
The Duchess of Sussex, 42, starred in the legal drama from 2011 to 2018 as paralegal Rachel Zane.
Meghan and Prince Harry met through a mutual friend in July 2016 and announced their engagement the following November. Shortly after, USA Network said the seventh season of Suits would be her last.
Meghan and costar Sarah Rafferty debated whether Rafferty’s character Donna Paulsen should date a visiting colleague from Pearson Darby’s London office — and his bio is a bit reminiscent of the Duke of Sussex!
“Why should I go out with him? Just because he’s charming and hot?” Rafferty asked in character.
“And witty and British,” Meghan replied.
“And has a title!” her co-star said.
Meghan Markle has long been contentious in the UK, with differing groups providing various reasons for liking or disliking her.