The News
NBCUniversal Executives Clash with Meghan Markle Over $20 Million Demand
Meghan Markle, known as the Duchess of Sussex, has been a prominent figure in the media ever since her marriage to Prince Harry in 2018.
Her actions, from stepping away from the royal family to taking legal action against the press, have kept her in the spotlight.
Now, reports suggest that Markle is aiming for a return to the screen with a hefty request of $20 million for a part-time role in a spin-off of the popular series Suits.
According to sources, NBCUniversal executives are prepared to go to great lengths to bring the former actress back for a new installment of Suits Cubed.
The legal drama, which aired from 2011 to 2019, catapulted Markle to fame as Rachel Zane, a paralegal entangled in a romance with the clever lawyer Mike Ross.
Markle's departure from the show after seven seasons followed her marriage to Prince Harry and relocation to the UK, where she assumed a senior role in the royal family.
While Markle has expressed her focus on humanitarian efforts and raising her children, insiders claim that her Hollywood ambitions remain alive and well.
Negotiations with NBCUniversal are said to be ongoing, with Markle aiming to reprise her role as Rachel Zane in a spin-off centered around the character's life in Seattle with Mike Ross, portrayed by Patrick J. Adams Cubed.
However, Markle's demands have reportedly stirred unrest among network executives already grappling with financial challenges due to the pandemic.
Seeking $20 million for a part-time commitment, Markle's stipulations include creative authority over the script and casting decisions, as well as a substantial share of profits and royalties.
Additionally, she insists on filming the show in Los Angeles, her current residence, rather than the original location of Toronto.
Sources close to the negotiations have criticized Markle's requests as excessive and out of touch with reality.
Described as attempting to capitalize on her royal status and past success on Suits, Markle is accused of alienating former colleagues and exhibiting diva-like behavior.
The tense discussions between Markle's representatives from WME and NBCUniversal executives indicate a significant gap in expectations.
With network bosses standing firm against what they perceive as unreasonable demands, the situation remains at an impasse.
Markle's insistence on her terms has led to a standoff, with NBCUniversal executives showing reluctance to concede to her ultimatums.
The network's tough stance suggests they are prepared to walk away from the deal if Markle does not adjust her expectations.