Meghan Markle has once again found herself at the center of controversy, this time surrounding a CBS interview that did not go as planned.
Despite Meghan's efforts to manage the narrative, the situation spiraled out of control, exposing cracks in her meticulously crafted public persona. The controversy was sparked by a photograph, which many believe does not show someone who is genuinely happy or engaged. Meghan, who often emphasizes values like empathy, kindness, and warmth—especially during a recent trip to Colombia—appeared to lack these qualities in the image. Critics argue that despite her attempts to project a more authoritative presence by lowering her voice to sound more commanding, her strategy may have fallen flat.
The core issue unfolded during an interview with CBS's Jane Pauley, a seasoned anchor who deviated from the pre-arranged script. According to sources, Meghan reportedly had a behind-the-scenes meltdown when she realized that the interview was not going as she had anticipated. She had assumed that her status as the Duchess of Sussex, coupled with her ties to the British monarchy, would give her some control over the proceedings. However, it seems CBS had other plans.
One unexpected element that threw Meghan off was having to share the stage with other guests, a situation she claimed to be unprepared for. The lack of prior agreement on this aspect of the interview reportedly left her feeling caught off guard, leading to visible discomfort and a perceived lack of engagement during the broadcast. Critics have noted that, as the face of the campaign she was promoting, it would have been more appropriate for her to demonstrate empathy and perhaps physically engage with the other guests on the show. Insider reports suggest that CBS’s feedback was far from favorable; Meghan’s perceived disinterest and focus on her own narrative rather than the broader cause she was supposed to support did not sit well with the network.
Meghan's choice to wear her signature head-to-toe beige outfit was noted, but it did little to redeem the situation. Prince Harry’s involvement in the interview only added to the confusion. He reportedly interjected with comments about first responders and other topics that seemed irrelevant to the main discussion, further diluting the message. Harry, who often finds himself at odds with the media, appeared once again to miss the mark.
The fallout from the interview raises concerns for CBS, which still plans to continue the initiative that Meghan and Harry were promoting. However, given Meghan’s track record with various projects, including the much-publicized 40x40 initiative, there is skepticism about her commitment. Observers have pointed out that she tends to lose interest in ventures quickly, and this latest endeavor may be no different. Nevertheless, the network is unlikely to abandon the project without a fight. CBS is expected to closely monitor the involvement of the Sussexes, ensuring that they remain engaged and fulfill their promises. There is also speculation that CBS may bring additional people on board to work alongside Meghan, a move that reportedly does not sit well with her.
As Meghan and Harry are learning, the world of television demands more than just screen presence; it requires tangible results. The recent CBS interview was neither widely viewed nor highly clicked on, a clear indication that their star power may be fading. Despite their titles and royal connections, the couple faces an uphill battle to maintain relevance in a media landscape that increasingly values substance over style.
