Reports indicate that CEO Ari Emanuel made an unusual request, reaching out to a former WME vice president for tickets to the film premiere attended by Megan Markle and Prince Harry.
A source close to WME disclosed that the Sussexes were invited to the premiere of the new Bob Marley film in Jamaica by Paramount Boss Brian Robbins. Notably, Megan allegedly exerted pressure on CEO Ari Emanuel to secure tickets for the event. Despite the supposed significance of their presence, the absence of photos featuring Harry, Megan, and Ziggy Marley, Bob's oldest son, raised questions.
It has been revealed that Ziggy Marley's wife, Oie Marley, a former WME executive, played a crucial role in organizing the outing. Oie Marley, currently an executive producer of the film, left WME in 2006 to manage Ziggy's career. Sources suggest that WME called in a favor, leveraging Oie Marley's connections to secure tickets for Megan and Harry. If WME orchestrated this outing for the Sussexes, it appears to have backfired, as videos and photos from the event showed them not seated in VIP positions.
Previous speculations hinted that WME might encourage Megan and Harry to mend ties with the British royal family, with the premiere being part of a strategic move. However, the seating arrangements at the event raised questions about WME's role in the entire affair. A video clip surfaced showing the Sussexes taking their seats several rows back from the VIP section. Harry appeared slightly downcast, while Megan was seen smiling and holding up a large gar as they made their way down the cinema aisles.
The timing of the Sussexes' engagement in Jamaica drew sharp criticism from royal commentators. Prime Minister Holness has expressed intentions to transition Jamaica into a republic, echoing sentiments within the broader Commonwealth realm. Seasoned royal commentator Phil Dampier labeled the couple's actions as insensitive, particularly given ongoing discussions in Jamaica about its constitutional relationship with the British monarchy. Dampier criticized Harry and Megan for not showing public support for King Charles and the Princess of Wales during this pivotal period.
The unfolding drama in Jamaica includes a scheduled referendum where citizens will decide on maintaining or severing ties with the monarchy. The historical context, notably the transition of Barbados to a republic without a public referendum, highlights the nuanced relationship between Commonwealth nations and the British crown.
The Sussexes' engagement in Jamaica has reignited debates about their position within the broader royal family and their relationship with Commonwealth countries. Royal expert Richard Fitz Williams suggested that their appearance sends a distinct message during a time when their relationship with the royal family remains strained, contrasting their current actions with their previous roles as senior working members.
