I'm sure you've all seen the images of Meghan gracing the cover of Variety magazine by now, but the response from top Aussie television hosts, Karl Stefanovic and Allison Langdon, is truly something else. For those who missed it, Variety is a huge Hollywood trade publication. Landing the cover is a big deal, reserved for only the most influential power players in Tinsel Town. So, when Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex herself, was selected for their latest issue, it seemed to cement her status amongst the celebrity elite in America, since moving there.
Except, not everyone was impressed by her high-fashion, airbrushed spread. During Monday's broadcast of the Today show, hosts Karl and Allison decided to really let loose with their honest thoughts on Meghan's Variety shoot. Viewers were left in stitches as the two mockingly poked fun at practically every aspect of the cover, from Meghan's pose to her motivational quotes.
Karl pulled up the image on screen and immediately started cracking up, saying, "Look at her stance, what is she doing here?" Allison deadpanned, "She's manifesting world peace, Karl. Get with the program," as they both burst into cackles.
Things escalated from there as they ripped on everything from the cringeworthy inspirational pull quotes to Meghan's air of self-importance. Allison even jokingly photoshopped herself onto the cover with an equally pretentious quote, sending both hosts into hysterics as their on-air ridicule continued unfiltered for several minutes straight.
Viewers around the globe were left in shock that two of the most prominent TV personalities down under would so publicly lambast a member of the royal family. Their bold critiques instantly went viral online, sparking a ferocious debate. Some fans praised Karl and Allison for speaking candidly, seeing Meghan as nothing more than a self-promoting celebrity. But others fumed that bashing a royal so harshly crossed a line.
The Today show received hundreds of complaints, with accusations of sexism and bullying also surfacing. Unsurprisingly, international headlines were soon shouting, "Australian TV hosts destroy Meghan Markle," and "Megxit drama escalates as Meghan is mocked globally."
Royal experts claimed the incident tarnished Meghan's brand at a critical point in redefining her post-royal image on the world stage. It was certainly not the reception she was hoping for from her glossy new magazine spread.
With outrage spiraling, Karl and Allison were forced to address the controversy live on air the next day. While doubling down that they meant no harm or disrespect to Meghan personally, the hosts insisted they were simply having an honest laugh at the overtly pompous nature of the Variety shoot.
They maintained Australians have a different sensibility that allows for light-hearted ribbing of even the famous and powerful. As for repercussions, Nine Network bosses claimed no disciplinary action would be taken, while Karl and Allison issued a formal apology if any offense was caused. They pointedly refused to retract or regret their on-air jokes.
And it seems the public is largely still on their side, enjoying seeing the usually untouchable world of royalty get taken down a notch. Of course, this debate has further polarized opinions of Meghan globally. Supporters see her as the constant victim of vitriol, while critics say she invites criticism through self-promotion and preachy public statements.
Either way, there's no denying the coverage has cemented Meghan's transformation into a true global figure, even if her rising profile is now just as much about public mocking as praise and accolades. Only time will tell if this saga permanently damages her brand, but for now, Australians Karl and Allison can relish cementing their reputations as the fearless TV personalities unafraid to say what many might be thinking.
