The head of ITV took aim at the BBC's decision to secure the rights to the American legal drama featuring Meghan Markle.
This move came under scrutiny, particularly as the BBC has been vocal about budget constraints. Kevin Lio, ITV's programming Chief, lamented that the publicly funded broadcaster had outbid his own company for the acquisition of the show "Suits." Speaking at the Voice of the Listener and Viewer spring conference in London, Lio criticized it as a questionable use of taxpayers' license fee funds.
He raised concerns over the BBC's expenditure on American productions while citing their complaints about budget limitations, suggesting that such actions were inflating prices for competing networks.
In a twist of irony, Meghan Markle reportedly felt unsettled when ITV executives extended a warm welcome to Jeremy Clarkson, a figure who had previously criticized her publicly. Despite Clarkson's past controversies, his apology led to the removal of the offending piece by The Sun. Despite Meghan's efforts to rally support for his dismissal, ITV stood firm, choosing instead to gauge audience reactions to Clarkson's appearances.
Surprisingly, the public response did not align with Meghan's expectations, allowing Clarkson to retain his hosting position. Adding insult to injury, Catherine, the Princess of Wales, continues to enjoy widespread adoration from the British public, despite Meghan's alleged attempts to tarnish her reputation with unfounded rumors. The majority of Britons still hold Catherine in high regard, leaving Harry's popularity trailing behind his wife's, a fact that must be disheartening for the couple, who seek validation.
The decline in ratings reflects the British public's growing weariness with the ongoing drama and perceived victim narrative. Envy towards Catherine appears deeply entrenched, fueled not only by royal hierarchy but also by personal grievances. Meghan's audacious demands of ITV and efforts to besmirch Catherine's image only serve to reinforce her status as an outsider within the royal family.
As Meghan contends with ITV's resistance and Catherine's unwavering popularity, observers witness the waning allure of the royal rebellion. It appears Meghan and Harry are grasping for a narrative twist that may never materialize as they struggle to maintain relevance both within royal circles and in public opinion.
