The News
Harry and Meghan: From A-List Royalty to C-List Controversy
In the glitzy world of Hollywood, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex once held a prominent place, basking in the limelight after relocating to Los Angeles in 2020.
Initially, they were seen as the new power couple, rubbing shoulders with A-listers like George and Amal Clooney and Barack and Michelle Obama.
However, the narrative has shifted dramatically over the past few years, leaving Harry and Meghan firmly on the C-list following their public criticisms of the British monarchy.
When they first arrived in Tinseltown, the couple was celebrated, but their fortunes have waned.
Their candid revelations about royal life, particularly in their six-part Netflix docuseries, have seemingly alienated many of their former friends.
Notably, the Obamas appear to have distanced themselves, with Michelle Obama subtly critiquing Meghan during her own Netflix special.
Michelle's remarks were pointed.
She emphasized the importance of rising above negativity, stating, “Going high is a choice.”
This sentiment underscores a stark contrast to how Harry and Meghan have often reacted to criticism.
The Obamas' avoidance of the Sussexes speaks volumes, especially as the couple continues to drop their names in various PR efforts.
Meghan has long admired Michelle Obama, even attending one of her talks in London back in 2018.
However, according to Tom Bauer's book, “Revenge: Meghan, Harry, and the War Between the Windsors,” Michelle expressed concern over Meghan's approach to her royal duties.
The former First Lady advised her to take her time and not rush into decisions, hinting at the immense pressure that comes with such a public role.
Since leaving the White House, the Obamas have successfully capitalized on their fame, amassing a fortune through book deals, speaking engagements, and their own production company.
With an estimated worth of $135 million, they remain beloved figures in America.
In contrast, Harry and Meghan seem to be following a similar path, launching their own projects and public initiatives.
However, the comparison between the Sussexes and the Obamas has taken a turn.
On Megyn Kelly's show, she noted that any aspirations Harry and Meghan had for a political career might now be out of reach.
The couple's recent PR missteps have become fodder for satire, as evidenced by their appearance in a skit on “South Park.”
Kelly remarked on the significance of this shift, stating, “When South Park turns on you, there's no recovering.”
Her guest, Michael Brendan Doherty, echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the Sussexes' publicity efforts have inadvertently boosted the popularity of Prince William and Kate Middleton instead.
Doherty further criticized the couple, describing them as “cringeworthy” and lacking genuine sympathy.
He argued that their attempts to navigate their new lives have left them with little utility beyond serving the interests of their publicists and those looking to profit from their names.
As Harry and Meghan continue to navigate their post-royal lives, the question remains: can they reclaim their status in a world that seems to have moved on?
The challenges they face are significant, and their journey may serve as a cautionary tale for others in the public eye.