Following the book's release in November, Scobie faced significant backlash, with many viewing it as a mere publicity stunt to boost sales. Interestingly, the publication of the book coincided with a decline in the popularity of Meghan and Harry, while Prince William and Princess Kate's favorability ratings among Americans soared. In contrast, Meghan, Harry, and Scobie experienced increased online negativity due to the backlash.
In response to the criticism, Scobie revised the Dutch edition of his book, making numerous changes, including alterations in tone and content. Initially, the book portrayed King Charles, Princess Kate, and other Royals in a negative light. Scobie later denied these allegations. Journalist Rick Iers, who first revealed the names, noted their removal in the new Dutch Edition. The updated version also softened descriptions of Charles's actions and improved Prince William's image.
Royal expert Neil Shawn claimed that Harry and Meghan have distanced themselves from Scobie, raising concerns about potential repercussions if Scobie were to retaliate. Commentator Duncan LOM observed signs of a thaw in the Sussex's relations with the royal family, such as Meghan wearing a diamond tennis bracelet from King Charles. However, LOM believes that "Endgame" has complicated any potential reconciliation. He noted the significance of Meghan wearing the bracelet, suggesting that such gestures carry weight in Royal circles. LOM also pointed out that the book has likely delayed any chance of immediate reconciliation, emphasizing Harry and Meghan's eagerness to distance themselves from it and its controversies.
Even Omid Scobie refrained from delving into Meghan Markle's relationship with her father, Thomas Markle, or her mother, Doria Ragland, in his explosive new book, "Endgame." According to a PR expert, Scobie likely saved his relationship with Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, by avoiding any mention of her family. Scobie made a series of bombshell claims about the royal family while specifically targeting Harry's strained relationships with King Charles, Prince William, and Kate Middleton.
Regarding why Scobie played it safe, Laura Perks told the Daily Mirror that the author did not want to jeopardize his relationship with Meghan Markle. She suggested that Scobie might be focusing solely on one side of the family—the side that garners constant media attention—while avoiding any mention of Doria. The expert even accused him of leveraging Meghan's fame from her time on "Suits" for his own fleeting moments of notoriety, implying that he wouldn't be in the spotlight without her.
Ultimately, "Endgame" seems to have only been possible due to Scobie's close relationship with Meghan, a connection he has recently attempted to downplay. As Perks concluded, if he were to sever ties with Meghan, his brief moment of fame might come to an end.
