Big Slap: Michael Douglas Rejects Meghan’s Plea to Join Him at Cannes Over Sussex’s Criticisms of Royal Family

Hollywood legend Michael Douglas is set to add another prestigious accolade to his illustrious career as the Cannes Film Festival bestows upon him an honorary Palme d'Or award, as revealed by organizers on May 3.

This esteemed recognition celebrates the 78-year-old actor's remarkable contributions to the world of cinema, with a special tribute planned during the festival's opening ceremony on May 16.

Upon hearing this news, Meghan Markle reached out to the renowned actor in hopes of securing an invitation to Cannes.

However, Michael Douglas's actions left Meghan feeling not just disappointed but also infuriated.

Before the recent turn of events, Michael Douglas had posed for a photo alongside a standee of Queen Elizabeth II, accompanied by a message offering well wishes to Prince Harry and Meghan.

Yet, following the couple's controversial departure from their royal duties and subsequent disparaging remarks about the monarchy, Douglas came to view the Sussexes in a different light, leading him to distance himself from them.

Despite being aware of Douglas's royalist sentiments, Meghan still attempted to leverage her connection with the Hollywood star to further her own ambitions of becoming a prominent actress in the industry.

Nevertheless, Douglas firmly rebuffed Meghan's audacious request, going as far as blocking her number, a move that left the Duchess seething with both anger and humiliation.

In recent developments, reports have surfaced indicating that Michael Douglas and his wife, Catherine Zeta-Jones, have relocated to a new apartment within London's historic St. James's Palace.

The esteemed couple, who have been married for over two decades and share two children, have demonstrated a deep admiration for the British monarchy, with their new residence placing them in close proximity to several royal figures.

St. James's Palace, dating back to the 16th century and once inhabited by King Henry VIII, now serves as the London abode for members of the royal family, including Prince Charles and Princess Alexandra.

The decision by Catherine, 53, and Michael, 78, to take up residence in one of London's oldest palaces signifies their affinity for the regal surroundings while visiting the capital.

Notably, a one-bedroom flat within St. James's Palace is currently available for rent at just under £4,000 per month, reflecting the exclusive nature of the property.

Michael Douglas, renowned for his iconic roles in films such as “Wall Street” and “Fatal Attraction,” has continued to captivate audiences with his performances in more recent productions, including Marvel's “Ant-Man” series and the award-winning TV comedy “The Kominsky Method.”

Expressing his anticipation for the upcoming Cannes Film Festival, Douglas remarked on the significance of the event as a platform for innovative storytellers and cinematic excellence.

Reflecting on his longstanding relationship with the festival, which dates back to his first appearance in 1979, Douglas emphasized the profound impact of cinema in touching audiences worldwide.

Past recipients of the honorary Palme d'Or award include esteemed figures such as French director Agnes Varda and actress Jodie Foster.

The esteemed jury for the 2023 Cannes Film Festival comprises a distinguished panel of industry professionals, including Oscar winner Brie Larson, American actor Paul Dano, and French director Juliette Yukornau.

As preparations for the festival intensify, the jury, led by last year's Palme d'Or recipient Ruben Austland, will evaluate the 21 competing films vying for recognition during the festival, scheduled from May 16 to 27.

With a diverse lineup of filmmakers and actors contributing to the judging process, anticipation mounts for the announcement of this year's top prize recipient at the conclusion of the festival on May 27.