Among the tribulations, the couple faced a podcast deal falling through and allegations of dishonesty regarding a car incident. Adding to their woes, they were labeled as one of the "Biggest Losers of 2023" by The Hollywood Reporter, with the publication mocking them for their perceived whiny Netflix documentary, their biography, and their inert podcast. To compound matters, the final episodes of Netflix's "The Crown" were recently released, portraying Prince Harry in an unflattering light, despite his association with the streaming service. The series even revisited his infamous Nazi costume scandal, during which a teenage Harry admitted to jealousy.
In the midst of these challenges, Meghan Markle finds herself disheartened as she reflects on her "annus horribilis." She grapples with the sheer number of humiliations and nightmarish scenarios that she and Harry have endured throughout the year. Despite their lofty aspirations to prove themselves in Hollywood and distance themselves from the royal family's shadow, the couple has been besieged by setbacks and scandals that have tarnished their image. As much as Meghan would like to shrug off these incidents, they have left lasting wounds. To say that she'd prefer to forget 2023 is an understatement; she can scarcely believe the year is concluding in such a manner.
In June, Meghan's podcast, Archewell Audio, was terminated by Spotify, effectively ending their £15.9 million deal with the streaming platform. This blow followed closely on the heels of the couple's involvement in what they claimed was a near-catastrophic car chase with photographers in New York. However, doubts emerged regarding the seriousness of these claims, with the taxi driver involved later asserting that he did not perceive it as a chase and never felt in danger.
Prince Harry's memoir, "Spare," was anticipated to garner some much-needed sympathy for the couple, but critics derided the book as absurd and overly emotional. The ripple effect was swiftly observed as reports surfaced earlier this month indicating an £8.7 million plunge in donations to the couple's charity, Archewell, over the past year. These various challenges are taking a toll on the couple.
Meghan and Harry have spent countless hours keeping abreast of the latest headlines and social media commentary, making them acutely aware of the public's sentiments towards them. While there may be some positive remarks, it is evident that they have not garnered favor, and influential figures seem to want little to do with them. This situation is deeply disheartening.
Furthermore, it has been suggested that the Spotify deal might not be the only one facing termination. Following the release of Omid Scobie's book, "Endgame," last month, a media storm ensued, as the Dutch translation of the book named two royals at the center of the racial controversy Meghan had raised in her 2021 Oprah interview. Despite sources close to Meghan insisting she did not leak any names, the potential damage is already done. Rumors abound that prestigious WME management is contemplating dropping Meghan from their roster, despite having signed a deal as recently as April, due to concerns that her diminishing star status may tarnish their reputation.
Addressing these rumors, a source lamented, "There's been so much rejection, not just from the royals, and now there are these rumors about being dropped by a management. Meghan prides herself on being a tough cookie, but this is all too much, even for her."
