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Alex Armstrong fronted Friday's episode of the Late Edition on GB News when he briefly paused the programme for an update on Meghan Markle. While going through the paper's headlines, hot off the press were reports the Duchess of Sussex, 44, had cut ties with Netflix. The $350bn streaming giant became a partner and invested in As Ever when it was launched 12 months ago to sell the likes of jam, rose wine and flower sprinkles. But insiders say Montecito-based Meghan is relieved to be able to "go it alone" after fearing As Ever was being "held back" by "cautious" Netflix.

Host Alex paused the programme, holding up his hand saying, "There is another story. Meghan Markle has cut ties... very brief time on this...

"Meghan has cut ties with Netflix or they have cut ties with her. It might be the case. I don't know. She's saying they held her brand back."

Turning to his fellow panellist Benjamin Butterworth, he quizzed: "Do you think they held her brand back?"

He replied: "No, I think they held her up. Because she doesn't appear to have any other career."

Journalist Cristo Foufas claimed: "There hasn't been a job that she's had that she's been successful in, in probably over a decade. The podcast failed. Netflix failed."

Benjamin interjected: "In fact, her jam sold very well."

Viewers flocked to the comment section and defended Meghan's decision to part ways with the streamer for the future of her As Ever brand.

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One penned: "Cutting ties can lead to fresh opportunities! Relationships in media are often complex, and who knows what could arise from this shift."

Another commented: "The Duchess has complete ownership of her company, and that means all revenue goes into her pocket. Congratulations Meghan!"

"Netflix was always a silent partner in her business. If Meghan hasn't revealed it no one would have known that Netflix is part of this deal. AsEver has reached its customer base because of Meghan. So Meghan getting full ownership of her brand is all win for her," a third added.

The As Ever split was mutual and the former working royal remains "on good terms" with Netflix's head Ted Sarandos, it is said.

A spokesman for Meghan said: "As ever is grateful for Netflix's partnership through launch and our first year. We have experienced meaningful and rapid growth, and As ever is now ready to stand on its own.

"We have an exciting year ahead and can't wait to share more."

A spokesman for Netflix said: "Meghan's passion for elevating everyday moments in beautiful yet simple ways inspired the creation of the As ever brand, and we are glad to have played a role in bringing that vision to life.

"As it was always intended, Meghan will continue growing the brand and take it into its next chapter independently, and we look forward to celebrating how she continues to bring joy to households around the world."

Prince Harry and Meghan signed a "first look" deal with Netflix after their £100m contract ran out last year.

Their movie Cookie Queens which premiered at The Sundance Festival was not picked up by Netflix.