Disney CEO Bob Iger stood firm in his decision, denying Prince Harry's plea for VIP tickets to the D23 Fan Event, despite speculation swirling after singer Usher's controversial remarks at the NAACP Awards.
Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, found herself at the center of attention after purported mocking by Usher during his acceptance speech at the awards ceremony. Amidst this, Disney recently revealed the lineup of 14 Legends of the House of Mouse to be honored at the upcoming D23 Fan Event in August 2024, as disclosed by Entertainment Weekly.
The list of honorees, unveiled on March 19th, 2024, boasts luminaries such as Miley Cyrus from "Hannah Montana," Harrison Ford from "Indiana Jones" and "Star Wars," and Angela Bassett, acclaimed for her groundbreaking role in "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever," marking the first Oscar nomination for a Marvel movie performer. Bob Iger emphasized the significance of being named a Disney Legend, hailing it as the apex of recognition within the company, reserved for those whose contributions have left an indelible mark on Disney's history.
Scheduled from August 9th to August 11th, 2024, in Anaheim, California, the D23 Fan Event promises a celebration of all things Disney. However, amidst the anticipation, rumors swirled that Prince Harry attempted to secure VIP tickets for the event, possibly to support Megan's endeavors in Hollywood. Yet, with strained relations following past requests, this avenue seemed closed, leaving the royal couple's attendance uncertain.
The recent upheaval stems from Usher's remarks during the NAACP Awards, where his words seemingly alluded to Megan Markle's perceived detachment from struggles championed by the NAACP. As he accepted the Outstanding Entertainer of the Year award, Usher's speech took an unexpected turn, sparking controversy and fueling social media debates. The tension escalated as his comments resonated beyond the Dolby Theater, reverberating through online platforms and media outlets.
In contrast, Prince Harry and Megan previously graced the same stage at the NAACP Image Awards, presenting the inaugural NAACP Archwell Digital Civil Rights Award to Dr. Safiya Noble, a distinguished scholar and advocate. However, the recent events cast a shadow over their involvement in such ceremonies, raising questions about their future engagements with high-profile events like the D23 Fan Event.