Thousands of spectators were expected to line the 3.2-mile u-shaped route to witness over 90 celebrities, 14 pre-parade and parade performers, 10 bands, 64-story-high character balloons, three floats, 39 movie cars, and eight novelty vehicles. The parade culminated with the appearance of Santa Claus and his reindeer, making for a total of approximately 5,000 participants in the parade. The event aimed to support Marine Toys for Tots.
A source from a blind item revealed that WME had prevented Meghan from joining the Hollywood tradition, as her appearance was expected to be overshadowed. However, an insider revealed that Meghan had sought to have several billboards featuring her image with feminist and humanitarian slogans displayed along the parade route. Additionally, she expressed a desire to sit in a carriage next to Harry, who would play Santa Claus. Despite her requests, the Hollywood Christmas Parade organizers chose to overlook Meghan's propositions.
The Hollywood Christmas Parade has been an annual production by Associated Television International, which coordinates airings on the Hallmark Channel and in syndication in later years to ensure its appearance on TV. The parade kicked off at 6:00 p.m. Sunday, commencing at Orange Street on Hollywood Boulevard and traveling eastward to Vine Street, then south to Vine Street, followed by a westward route on Sunset Boulevard, before returning to Orange Street.
Notable participants in the parade included Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, dancer and singer Paula Abdul, singer Dwight Yoakam, radio host KCM, pop duo Aly & AJ, and actors Chris Cannon, Craig Robinson, Ernie Hudson, Brandon Routh, Mingle Denise Richards, and Taty Eli.
Each year, the parade features Toys for Tots, as well as other vital organizations and charities that assist underprivileged individuals during the giving season. The parade serves as a reminder of unity and the importance of kindness and mutual assistance, something to be celebrated by all.
This news follows reports that Meghan Markle is uncertain about her next career move after stepping down as a senior member of the royal family with her husband, Prince Harry, back in 2020. While promoting his upcoming book, Omid Scobie told The Times that business and philanthropy would be Meghan's primary focus. He mentioned, "I still don't quite understand what the business project will be because I spoke to people while writing the book, and it changed about five times, so we'll see."
Scobie didn't rule out Meghan's return to acting either, as she recently hinted at exciting projects in the pipeline, though she couldn't divulge any details. Meghan attended the Variety Gala and revealed, "I'm really proud of what we are creating. My husband is loving it too, which is really fun."
