However, this year's offering, which featured heartwarming group hugs, infectious smiles, and glamorous selfies set to an uplifting soundtrack, appeared online mere hours after the Princess of Wales shared a charming clip of herself with her three children, all lending a helping hand at the Windsor Baby Bank, a charity dedicated to assisting families in need. Some might dismiss this timing as a mere coincidence. Nevertheless, at the conclusion of what has undoubtedly been a tumultuous year for the couple, one could argue that they are in dire need of some positive public relations.
In a moment, we'll delve into the state of their foundation three years after its launch. But first, let's address some of the fallout from the publication of "Endgame," the controversial biography penned by a journalist with close ties to the couple. The book spared no punches in its brutally honest evaluation of who ranks high and low in the entertainment industry. It placed Harry and Meghan among the 11 at the bottom of the list, blaming their Netflix documentary, their tell-all biography, and a lackluster podcast for their inclusion. It went on to accuse them of forsaking a life of ceremonial public service in favor of cashing in on their celebrity status in the United States. The book suggested that the Harry and Meghan brand had inflated into a sanctimonious bubble, just waiting to burst.
Recently, a source at a holiday party, hosted by the head of a major studio, revealed insights into Ari, the WME CEO, and their stance on the Sussexes' reconciliation with the royal family. According to the source, unless King Charles III and the Sussexes find common ground, the industry essentially handed Ari the first opportunity to represent them. Ari and his team essentially conveyed to Meghan and Harry that reconciliation with the royal family was a prerequisite for any successful branding or rebranding efforts.
This sheds light on why Meghan was seen out and about after the announcement of her children's new royal titles as prince and princess. She tried to project an image of reconciliation on the horizon, despite the recent release of the controversial biography. It also explains her absence from the book's discussions. She likely believed that she could play the role of peacemaker on the other side.
All of this begins to make sense when you consider the complex dynamics at play. From the King's birthday invite snub to their apparent reluctance to spend Christmas in the UK, there's a political undercurrent influencing their decisions. Prince William serves as the president of BAFTA, the Academy Awards of the UK. For Meghan, being in good graces with BAFTA is essential, but her chances diminish considerably if she continues to clash with the British royal family.
Meghan appears trapped due to her association with Ari, unable to explore other options. Moving to a lesser agency would insult Ari, and no other major agency would want to touch her when Ari wields so much influence in the industry. It's a peculiar kind of prison sentence.
Meghan may not be willing to give up her media presence, but her desperation might lead her to make unwise decisions to stay in the spotlight. This, in turn, could tarnish WME's brand. Harry, too, seems willing to go to great lengths to remain in the media, even if it means criticizing his own family. Meanwhile, the British royal family continues to soar in popularity, while Harry and Meghan seem to be on a downward trajectory. Their narrative appears stagnant, offering nothing new to the public, and instead, it's a repetition of the past three years.
