While some have labeled them as money-hungry grifters, an insider close to the renegade royal couple revealed that Harry and Meghan consider such criticism to be driven by jealousy and mean-spiritedness.
The news of the separation from Spotify came after Meghan and the audio giant mutually agreed to part ways. They expressed pride in the series they had created together during Meghan's brief 12-episode run.
However, their media company, Archewell, did not produce enough content to meet the requirements for the full payout. A source close to the situation shared with the New York Post that the project aimed to challenge and dismantle societal labels that hinder women's progress.
Criticism intensified when the Spotify deal failed to meet its potential, coinciding with a temporary lull in the ongoing tensions between the Sussexes and Harry's family. Bill Simmons, a Spotify executive and the founder of the Ringer podcast network, which was acquired by the streaming service, publicly criticized Meghan and Prince Harry, labeling them as "effing grifters." Jeremy Zimmer, CEO of United Talent Agency, also added to the scrutiny, stating that Meghan lacked audio talent or any noteworthy talent at all.
Adding fuel to the fire, The Guardian published a scathing article earlier this week, severely criticizing the couple's podcasting endeavors. Columnist Stuart Heritage sarcastically highlighted one of Harry's podcast ideas, which involved delving into childhood trauma, not just his own, but also the experiences of controversial guests like Vladimir Putin, Mark Zuckerberg, and Donald Trump.
The article mocked the idea, suggesting that persuading powerful and influential figures to open up about their childhood experiences was a far-fetched notion.
Despite the backlash, Meghan seems undeterred and remains focused on building her brand. Insiders report that she is increasingly interested in film and TV production, as well as brand partnerships. Many predict that Megan is on her way to becoming a prominent figure in Hollywood, alongside Harry, and they will continue to amass fortunes. They are determined to forge ahead, regardless of what critics have to say.
Needless to say, it has been a challenging couple of weeks for the couple's devoted fanbase, the "Harcals." However, the Sussexes still have the opportunity to turn things around, but they must carefully plan their next move.
Over the weekend, The Wall Street Journal published a scathing piece titled "Harry and Megan: Hollywood Flop Themselves," highlighting the couple's recent career setbacks and various rejections. The article noted Taylor Swift's decline of an invitation to appear on Meghan's podcast as another blow to their Hollywood aspirations.
Prince Harry and Meghan's venture into Hollywood is currently facing significant hurdles, leading some critics to brand it as a disappointment. Despite their initial entrance into the entertainment industry with their royal star power, they have encountered more cancellations and rejections than successful productions, as detailed by authors Eric Swartzell and Sarah Krause in The Wall Street Journal.
