Meghan Markle is currently grappling with a PR crisis so severe that even the most skilled public relations strategists might struggle to contain it.
Amidst their ongoing challenges, both Meghan and Prince Harry are discovering the harsh realities of Hollywood's ever-changing allegiances. According to a recent exposé by The Hollywood Reporter, Meghan has earned the unflattering nickname of "Duchess Difficult" from her own staff. This label has raised eyebrows and sparked concerns, leading industry insiders to speculate about potential fallout.
Mark Borkowski, a prominent PR expert, offers a stark forecast for the Sussexes. He suggests they should brace for more setbacks as they attempt to navigate the unpredictable world of Hollywood. Borkowski’s assessment is blunt: "I think they've probably lost Hollywood." Once celebrated as a maverick royal couple with a unique blend of charm and glamour, their appeal now seems to have faded. He further elaborates that Hollywood is an insular community where reputations can be made or shattered overnight. "Once you’re out, you’re out," Borkowski notes, emphasizing the vital role of public relations in maintaining relevance in this competitive environment.
In the world of Hollywood, even a whisper of negativity can lead to a swift fall from grace. Borkowski’s remarks reflect the fiercely protective nature of Hollywood’s elite, who work tirelessly to shield their clients from any potential self-sabotage. In such a high-stakes industry, sustaining a polished and favorable image is essential. Unfortunately for Meghan and Harry, their ongoing narratives of feeling isolated from the royal family might be damaging their public image rather than garnering sympathy. Borkowski warns that without a reserve of positive public perception, they risk losing the influence they once held.
One notable sign of Meghan's slipping status was her conspicuous absence from the guest list for the 2024 Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles. To add to the blow, she has also been excluded from the upcoming Gucci-sponsored LACMA Art + Film Gala on November 2nd—an event renowned for its glamorous star-studded guest list. Meghan's exclusion is particularly striking given her previous high-profile connections and the significance of this event in Hollywood circles. This year’s gala will honor figures such as director Baz Luhrmann and artist Simone Leigh, with a performance by pop sensation Charli XCX, making Meghan’s absence even more glaring.
In an even more humiliating twist, reports suggest that Meghan has faced rejection from Kris Jenner, the influential matriarch of the Kardashian family. Once seen as a potential ally, Jenner has reportedly chosen to distance herself from Meghan, possibly due to the Sussexes' declining popularity in public opinion polls. A source close to the situation informed Closer magazine that, while Kris has a lot on her plate, it is hard to ignore the speculation that she dropped Meghan and Harry due to the unfavorable public sentiment. This apparent rejection has left Meghan feeling humiliated, especially given her initial reluctance to collaborate with the Kardashians. Ironically, after warming up to the idea of building a partnership with them, Meghan now finds herself spurned by those she sought to align with.
As Meghan navigates these turbulent times, her Hollywood trajectory appears increasingly fraught with challenges. With every high-profile event she misses and every influential connection she loses, one question looms large: Can Meghan Markle ever regain her footing in Hollywood? For now, the outlook seems dim, and the dreams of achieving stardom in the land of fame and fortune may remain just that—dreams.