Meghan Markle now faces a public relations crisis so significant that even the most skilled spin doctors may struggle to repair the damage.
Amidst her and Prince Harry's ongoing challenges, it appears the couple is discovering the hard way that Hollywood's embrace can be fleeting. According to a recent exposé by The Hollywood Reporter, Meghan has been given the unflattering nickname of "Duchess Difficult" by her own staff. This label has raised eyebrows and foreshadowed a fallout that many industry insiders had anticipated.
Mark Borkowski, a prominent PR expert, cautioned that the Sussexes should prepare for additional setbacks as they attempt to navigate the often treacherous terrain of Tinseltown. Borkowski's assessment is stark: "I think they've probably lost Hollywood." Once celebrated as a maverick royal couple radiating charm and glamour, their appeal now appears to have significantly dimmed. He elaborates that Hollywood is an insular world where reputations can be made or broken overnight. "Once you're out, you're out," he warned, emphasizing the importance of strong public relations in maintaining a presence in this fiercely competitive industry.
In Hollywood, image is everything. Even a hint of negative press can prompt a swift exit, a sentiment echoed by Borkowski, who pointed out how protective the Hollywood elite can be of their own circles. According to him, many industry insiders go to great lengths to shield their clients from any self-sabotage in an environment known for cutthroat competition. For Meghan and Harry, their ongoing narrative of feeling alienated from the royal family may be exacerbating their situation. Without the currency of positive public perception, Borkowski suggests that their influence is at serious risk.
Evidence of Meghan's declining status in Hollywood became apparent when she was noticeably absent from the 2024 Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles, a significant event in the entertainment industry. Further adding to the sting, Meghan has also not been invited to the upcoming Gucci-sponsored LACMA Art + Film Gala on November 2nd, an event famous for its star-studded guest list and glamorous atmosphere. The absence is particularly noteworthy given Meghan’s prior high-profile connections, underscoring her waning influence within Hollywood circles. This year’s gala will honor influential figures such as director Baz Luhrmann and artist Simone Leigh, with a special performance by pop sensation Charli XCX.
In an even more embarrassing blow, it has been reported that Meghan faced rejection from none other than Kris Jenner, the matriarch of the Kardashian empire. Once seen as a potential ally, Jenner has now reportedly chosen to distance herself from the Sussexes, likely due to the couple’s declining popularity in public opinion polls. A source close to the situation told Closer Magazine that although Jenner has many responsibilities, it’s hard not to speculate that she may have cut ties after seeing the poor poll results surrounding Meghan and Harry. This reported rejection has left Meghan feeling humiliated. Initially hesitant about collaborating with the Kardashians, Meghan had come around to the idea and was keen on building a partnership. The irony of seeking support from the Kardashians only to be turned away makes the rejection a particularly bitter pill to swallow.
As Meghan navigates these rough waters, it's evident that her Hollywood journey is fraught with challenges. With each opportunity missed and every connection lost, the question becomes more pressing: Can Meghan Markle regain a foothold in Hollywood? For now, the outlook appears bleak, and the dreams of Hollywood stardom may remain just that—dreams.
