Audible clarified that there have been no discussions with Meghan Markle, dismissing the baseless reports. An insider had previously hinted that the Audible opportunity held even more promise than Markle's $29 million contract with the podcast giant Spotify, which was terminated in June. Rumors even hinted at the potential for a substantial payout that could surpass Spotify's significant investment.
Markle seemed excited about the prospect of being associated with notable figures like Michelle and Barack Obama, who had joined Audible the previous year. Despite her outward confidence, the reality was that Meghan Markle had been facing challenges since losing the Spotify deal, a significant setback. She and her husband, Prince Harry, had parted ways with Spotify amid controversy shortly after signing with the audio company in late 2020.
While Markle had produced a single 12-episode podcast series titled "Archetypes," both she and Harry had stated that their departure from Spotify was a mutual decision. However, negative attention persisted around Markle's podcast debut, with Spotify executive Bill Simmons even referring to them as "effing grifters" on his podcast, recounting a zoom meeting he had with Prince Harry to discuss podcast ideas.
Despite the challenges, an insider disclosed that Meghan Markle is eager to embark on a new chapter with a fresh contract. However, she is apprehensive about the immense pressure to succeed, and the pressure has been taking a toll on her sleep. She recognizes that the stakes will only get higher if she secures this deal.
Hollywood power brokers are keenly aware of the Sussex's prior missteps with the Spotify deal, and there are concerns that being dropped twice would irreparably damage their brand, eroding trust in their ability to deliver quality content.
This development follows Meghan Markle's signing with the prominent Hollywood agency WME in April, raising anticipation among Royal watchers for her first major deal to materialize from this partnership. While there have been ongoing rumors about Markle's impending career revival, including reports of a deal with a French fashion house and a social media relaunch, nothing substantial has come to fruition thus far. It appears that brands are actively distancing themselves from Markle, which could be to her detriment.
In light of these challenges, it's becoming increasingly important for her to rebuild her reputation and credibility, especially in the world of entertainment and media.
