The legal drama Suits, which catapulted Meghan Markle into the spotlight before she became the Duchess of Sussex, has been the center of speculation since its conclusion in 2019.
Fans have long speculated about potential spin-offs and revivals, frequently wondering if Meghan would make a return, whether in a cameo or a more significant role. Recently, however, news surfaced that NBC executives rejected Markle’s request for a cameo in a Suits spin-off, dismissing the idea as a fantasy. While this may seem to close the door on Markle's return, the saga is far from over, as the fan community continues to buzz with intrigue and theories.
To understand the context behind Markle’s plea and NBC’s response, we need to revisit her early days on Suits. The series premiered in 2011, introducing characters such as Harvey Specter and Mike Ross, but it was Meghan Markle’s portrayal of Rachel Zane that captured the hearts of millions. Rachel was more than a love interest—she was a complex, driven character. Markle’s on-screen chemistry with co-star Patrick J. Adams brought a romantic dynamic that became one of the show’s highlights. Over its nine-season run, Suits became a cultural phenomenon. Even after Markle’s engagement to Prince Harry and her subsequent exit from the show, many fans hoped she might one day return as Rachel Zane. The character’s final arc saw Rachel married to Mike Ross and starting a new life in Seattle, leaving fans satisfied yet yearning for more.
By 2023, rumors of a potential Suits comeback resurfaced, fueled by the broader trend of rebooting beloved TV shows like Friends and The Office. Fans speculated about the return of the beloved Suits characters and the many unanswered questions from the series finale. Would Harvey and Donna’s marriage last? Could Mike and Rachel return to New York? Reports indicated that Markle was interested in making a cameo in a potential spin-off, viewing it as a playful nod to her acting roots and a way to reconnect with her fanbase. However, NBC Universal, the parent company behind Suits, was quick to shut down any talk of Markle’s involvement.
Several factors likely contributed to NBC's decision. First, there's the "Royal Factor." Meghan Markle’s transition from royal family member back to Hollywood actress is fraught with complexity. While her fame could undoubtedly draw attention to any project she joins, her royal background and controversial interviews have made her a polarizing figure. Hollywood loves a comeback, but the media frenzy surrounding Markle could overshadow the narrative of the show itself, a concern for both producers and executives.
Second, NBC may have been concerned about brand protection. Suits remains a valuable property, and reintroducing Rachel Zane could alter how fans perceive the show. Her departure had been well-received, and there was a risk that bringing her back might disrupt the show's legacy. Additionally, there are ongoing concerns about Markle’s public image, and how difficult it might be to separate her royal persona from the character she once played.
Lastly, scheduling conflicts presented a practical barrier. Markle is incredibly busy, juggling various philanthropic efforts, deals with Netflix and Spotify, and raising two young children. Finding the time for even a brief cameo could prove to be logistically difficult.
When NBC ultimately declined Markle’s request for a cameo, some Suits fans were disappointed. Social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram saw the hashtag #BringBackRachel trend, with many expressing their frustration. Some fans argued that Markle’s return could reignite interest in a spin-off, while others felt that Rachel’s story had already reached a satisfying conclusion and did not need revisiting.
Even without Meghan Markle, Suits remains a topic of interest in the entertainment world. Discussions about potential spin-offs or revivals are still ongoing, particularly as legal dramas continue to find success on streaming platforms like Netflix. Ideas for new storylines are being floated, including a possible spin-off centered around Louis Litt, another focused on Harvey and Donna’s married life, or even a series exploring the next generation of lawyers at Specter Litt. Whatever NBC’s plans may be, it’s clear that Suits still has more stories to tell, even if Markle’s role in these projects remains uncertain.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding her return to Suits, Meghan Markle’s career continues to thrive. She now runs her own production company, Archewell Productions, and has secured lucrative deals with Netflix and Spotify. Additionally, she remains a prominent advocate for mental health, women’s rights, and racial equality. Her high-profile interviews, such as her conversation with Oprah Winfrey and the release of Prince Harry’s memoir Spare, keep her in the public eye—though they also invite their share of criticism. Markle seems determined to balance her public image with her charitable work, navigating the complex landscape of Hollywood and philanthropy.
While NBC’s decision to reject Markle’s cameo request might have halted immediate talks of her return to Suits, her connection to the show will continue to fuel fan conversations. In the unpredictable world of television, nothing is off the table, and dream cameos sometimes do become reality. Whether or not Markle ever reprises her role as Rachel Zane, Suits will undoubtedly maintain its strong legacy in the annals of television history.
