On October 19th, 2024, the Academy Museum Gala took place, serving as a significant annual fundraiser for the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
The event supports the museum's exhibits, educational initiatives, and public programming. If the Oscars are akin to a glamorous Hollywood blockbuster, the Academy Museum Gala is more like the elegant, quieter cousin that is always graciously invited but often remains outside the spotlight. This year, Meghan Markle's absence from the guest list was particularly noteworthy, raising eyebrows and sparking conversations.
Known for her fashion-forward choices, Meghan might have opted for a daring gown with a low neckline and a high slit, but it appears she wasn’t present to make that statement. The question remains: why wasn’t she invited? Anna Wintour, who has previously extended invitations to high-profile celebrities such as the Kardashians, did not seem to be the gatekeeper in this instance. The host committee, made up of about 100 individuals and corporate entities, orchestrated the guest list, prompting speculation over whether Meghan's invitation got lost in the process or whether she was deliberately excluded.
Among the notable members of the host committee were Gabrielle Union, Ted Sarandos from Netflix, and Brian Robbins of Paramount. Rumors have also circulated that Meghan may no longer be represented by WME, raising further questions. Robbins, who once invited Meghan to a premiere in Jamaica, theoretically would have no trouble extending an invite to a local gala, yet Meghan was conspicuously absent. This absence raises intriguing questions given her connections to key players like Apple Original Films, which produced her and Prince Harry's documentary, and luxury brand Louis Vuitton, which designed the gown she wore to the Ripple of Hope Awards. Additionally, with powerful corporate allies such as JP Morgan Chase, Disney, and even her supposed friend Orlando Bloom, the lack of any invitation—or at least any visible evidence of her attendance—does raise some eyebrows. After all, in Hollywood, if there are no photos, it's as if it didn’t happen.
The snub is emblematic of the industry's complicated relationship with the Sussexes, who have long been held at arm’s length by Hollywood elites. The lack of visible support from her so-called friends reflects a shifting sentiment within the industry. Meghan’s highly publicized initiatives, like her "40x40" project, which encouraged women to seek mentors in unrelated fields, faced criticism for lacking a practical approach. Critics pointed out that she could have made a more meaningful impact by encouraging women to volunteer 40 minutes of their time for community service or practical mentorship instead.
There is an underlying sentiment that extending an invitation to Meghan Markle is akin to inviting a potential PR disaster. Her reputation, marred by allegations of bullying and opportunism, may cause attendees to shy away. Some may be wary of having their names dropped in future tell-all books or avoiding an awkward encounter. Additionally, it’s not lost on insiders that attending the Gala comes with a significant financial expectation—something Meghan may not be willing or able to fulfill.
In essence, the situation seems to highlight an evolving perception of Meghan within Hollywood circles. As the Sussexes’ influence appears to wane, their exclusion from such high-profile gatherings could be a sign that the industry is distancing itself, even from those it once embraced with open arms.
