Hollywood Isn’t Calling Them: Hoda Kotb Takes a Dig at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on Late Night with Seth Meyers
Imagine this: You’re sitting on the couch late at night, casually scrolling through your phone, when a comment on the screen makes you drop it. That’s exactly what happened when Hoda Kotb, the beloved co-host of NBC’s Today Show, threw some shade at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle during her appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers. The unexpected remark took audiences by surprise and ignited a frenzy on social media, sparking debates, laughs, and hot takes. But what exactly did she say, and why did it hit so hard? Let's dive into the juicy details of this moment, the broader implications for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, and the ever-changing public opinion in Hollywood.
What exactly did Hoda say? Sitting across from Seth Meyers on his iconic late-night set, Hoda exuded her usual warmth and charm. The conversation meandered from her career highlights to playful banter, but then, the topic turned to Hollywood royalty—or, rather, the lack thereof. When Meyers casually mentioned Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Hoda quipped, “Well, Hollywood doesn’t seem to be calling them back, does it?”
Her remark, quick and light-hearted, was wrapped in her signature humor, but it was enough to send fans and critics into a frenzy. So, why did it land so hard?
The timing of Hoda’s comment was key. The Sussexes' media projects, including their Netflix documentary and Spotify podcast, have faced mixed reviews. Industry insiders have even suggested their star power may be waning. The delivery also played a role—Hoda’s playful tone made the jab feel like a casual observation, yet it carried a sting that resonated with viewers. Could it be that Hoda was simply voicing what many were already thinking?
To understand why Hoda’s comment had such an impact, let’s rewind to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s dramatic exit from the British royal family in early 2020. Their decision to step back from royal duties shocked the world and sparked endless speculation. They envisioned a new life in North America, free from royal protocols, where they could become humanitarian powerhouses and media moguls, tackling issues like mental health, racial inequality, and climate change.
But has reality matched the dream? The couple signed lucrative deals with Netflix and Spotify, hinting at a future full of groundbreaking content. However, public reception has been mixed. Their Netflix docuseries offered intimate glimpses into their lives, but critics accused it of being overly self-serving. Meghan’s Archetypes podcast, despite featuring high-profile guests, was cancelled after just one season. With these setbacks, some are questioning whether Hollywood’s doors are still open for the Sussexes.
Hoda Kotb’s playful jab may have been a harmless joke, but it mirrors a larger shift in public opinion. Early supporters of Harry and Meghan admired their bravery in stepping away from royal life. Now, however, even loyal fans seem divided. Key indicators of this shift include:
Social Media Reactions: Once filled with support, comment sections are now a mix of praise, critique, and indifference.
Media Coverage: Headlines have grown less flattering, focusing more on their challenges than their successes.
Industry Signals: The cancellation of high-profile projects suggests Hollywood’s patience may be wearing thin.
Could Hoda’s comment be a subtle warning for the Sussexes to reassess their approach?
If history is any guide, all is not lost for Harry and Meghan. Hollywood is a land of comebacks, and many stars have turned public perception around with the right moves. Consider Robert Downey Jr., who went from scandal-ridden headlines to becoming Iron Man, or Taylor Swift, who reinvented herself with strategic storytelling and fan engagement.
Embrace Vulnerability: Authenticity resonates with audiences, but it must feel genuine, not rehearsed.
Focus on Impact: Instead of centering on themselves, they could highlight the causes they champion more effectively.
Step Back Strategically: Sometimes, less is more. A temporary retreat from the spotlight could rebuild intrigue.
Despite recent setbacks, Harry and Meghan still have the potential to redefine their narrative. Their global platform and commitment to philanthropy offer a solid foundation for reinvention. Upcoming projects, along with rumors of new ventures, could showcase their strengths without overexposure. Public engagement and strategic appearances that emphasize their humanitarian efforts could reignite public support.
Hoda Kotb’s witty remark sparked a media frenzy, but it also serves as a timely reminder for Harry and Meghan. In a world quick to praise and even quicker to criticize, the couple must navigate their next steps carefully. As the laughter from Hoda’s Late Night appearance fades, one thing remains clear: Hollywood isn’t calling them right now, but that doesn’t mean the phone will stay silent forever.
What do you think? Can Harry and Meghan stage a Hollywood comeback, or is their star power fading for good? Share your thoughts in the comments below. And if you enjoyed this deep dive, don’t forget to share it with fellow royal watchers.
While the public may currently perceive the Sussexes as struggling to find their footing, history is full of individuals and couples who have reinvented themselves after facing challenges. Harry and Meghan’s story is still unfolding, and they have tools at their disposal that could help them regain control of their narrative.
If there’s one thing Hollywood has taught us, it’s that timing is everything. Harry and Meghan’s next move should involve careful planning and a strategy to build intrigue without oversaturating their audience. Here’s how they could approach their next chapter:
Go Private Before Going Public: After years of being in the media spotlight, a brief hiatus could work wonders. A strategic retreat would allow them to recharge and build anticipation for their next appearance.
Focus on Silent Philanthropy: Instead of high-profile campaigns, they could embrace low-key charity work that generates organic goodwill.
Partner with Established Voices: Collaborating with influential organizations could lend credibility to their causes and dilute the perception of self-promotion.
For Harry and Meghan, it’s not just about what they do next, but how they do it. Their current brand identity is closely tied to their departure from the royal family and the subsequent controversies. To move forward, they must redefine their image.
Their new narrative could emphasize:
Resilience: Their ability to overcome public challenges and focus on meaningful contributions.
Authenticity: A more down-to-earth, relatable approach to sharing their journey.
Global Citizenship: Positioning themselves as advocates for worldwide change, not just personal grievances.
Audience engagement will be crucial for Harry and Meghan as they rebuild their image. Here’s how they can reconnect with their supporters:
Interactive Platforms: Hosting Q&A sessions or webinars where they address questions directly could humanize them.
Storytelling with Purpose: Sharing inspiring stories from the causes they support, rather than focusing on personal struggles, would resonate deeply.
Embracing Feedback: Acknowledging criticism with grace and showing they are willing to evolve could go a long way in regaining trust.
One undeniable fact remains: People are still deeply invested in Harry and Meghan’s story. Whether it's admiration, skepticism, or simple curiosity, the couple continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Their journey encapsulates universal themes: the desire for independence, the struggle to balance personal happiness with public expectations, and the quest for meaning in a chaotic world.
By leaning into these themes, the Sussexes can remind people why they became icons of change in the first place.
Hoda Kotb’s light-hearted jab may have been a wake-up call, but it doesn’t spell the end for Harry and Meghan. Instead, it could serve as a reminder of how quickly public perception can shift—and how easily it can shift back with the right moves.
The Key Takeaway: Reinvention isn’t just possible—it’s inevitable for those willing to put in the work.
