The latest casualty in the ongoing soap opera of celebrity politics is none other than Chef extraordinaire José Andrés. This time, it’s not about his famous culinary creations but a scandal that could outdo even the most dramatic episodes on the Food Network.
It’s only the second day of Donald Trump’s second term in office, and guess who got booted from the President’s Council on Sports? None other than Andrés himself. Why, you ask? Well, being associated with Meghan and Harry seems to come with some rather unsavory side effects. Enter the new buzzword of the season: "Markled."
What does it mean to be "Markled"? It’s what happens when you get too close to the royal couple and suddenly find yourself kicked to the curb. Whether it’s your career, reputation, or a spot on a presidential council, everything’s fair game when you’re touched by the so-called "Sussex effect." And Chef Andrés? He’s the latest high-profile figure to get served a hefty dose of Markling. His crime? Simply being friends with Harry and Meghan. After all, nothing says "career success" quite like being connected to royals who generate more headlines for their drama than for their charitable endeavors.
Adding more spice to the dish, Andrés had been seen rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous at events like the World Economic Forum and the World Health Organization—places where real social impact is supposed to happen. Yet, his original mission of helping the less fortunate seemed to lose its flavor when he got mixed up with a couple who could turn even the best PR campaign into a disaster.
It’s not like Andrés has completely forgotten his roots, though. He’s still out there making meals for those in need. But his celebrity friendships bring plenty of drama to the table. You’ve got to wonder: Was he truly serving meals to those in need, or was he serving his personal brand on a silver platter to the Sussexes?
And let’s not forget the photo ops. Andrés, who has been busy appearing at wildfire relief efforts alongside Harry and Meghan, has decided to stand by his friends. We get it, José—you love a good hug, a photo op, and a sprinkle of celebrity goodwill. Who doesn’t? But posing next to the Duke and Duchess of Drama does come with consequences.
Now, back to Trump’s decree. Just hours after Andrés was dropped from the council, the culinary community was left wondering: Was he genuinely helping people, or was he just stirring the pot with his high-profile connections? The whispers are growing louder, and it’s becoming clearer by the day that the Sussex effect comes with a hefty side of backlash. Andrés, it seems, is caught in the crossfire.
But Trump didn’t just target Andrés for his charity work—oh no, the story gets even juicier. The chef had reportedly been spotted with a man later arrested for allegedly plotting to assassinate Trump. Now that’s a recipe for disaster. Imagine cooking up a meal for someone with such shady connections. If you’re Trump, that’s more than enough reason to "Markle" someone right out of favor.
If Andrés continues cozying up to Meghan and Harry, Trump might just set his sights on Harry next. After all, Trump is known for his strong opinions about drugs, alcohol, and celebrities who make waves. So, mark my words: If Andrés gets Markled for his association with the Sussexes, it wouldn’t be surprising if Harry himself ends up facing the consequences sooner rather than later.
