Hollywood was left in shock as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle faced a humiliating rejection at the 2025 Academy Awards after allegedly attempting to walk the red carpet without an official invitation. The former royals, who have repeatedly positioned themselves as global influencers and Hollywood elites, were reportedly turned away by event security in a public and embarrassing scene that adds to their growing list of controversies.
Eyewitnesses claim that Harry and Meghan arrived at the event dressed to impress, expecting to be welcomed with open arms. However, Oscar officials were quick to intervene, making it clear that their names were not on the guest list. Sources inside the Academy confirmed that while A-list celebrities and filmmakers received exclusive invitations months in advance, the Sussexes had not been extended the same courtesy. Despite their past dealings with Netflix and their attempts to integrate into Hollywood’s elite circles, they were not considered essential attendees for the industry’s biggest night.
Meghan Markle’s desire to establish herself as a Hollywood power player has been well-documented. Since stepping away from the royal family, she has made several attempts to cement her status in the entertainment industry. From her controversial Netflix documentary to her alleged plans of launching a political career, Meghan has consistently sought the limelight. However, Hollywood is known for its exclusivity, and it seems her desperation to be seen among the industry’s most elite may have backfired spectacularly.
The Academy’s strict guest list policies ensure that only those with direct ties to nominated films or influential industry figures make the cut. Despite their multi-million-dollar deals, Harry and Meghan have not produced any Oscar-worthy content, making their presence unnecessary. Their attendance at past high-profile events, such as Beyoncé’s movie premiere and Kevin Costner’s charity gala, had already raised eyebrows, with critics accusing them of inserting themselves into spaces where they are not truly welcome.
The rejection at the Oscars adds to a growing narrative of Harry and Meghan struggling to maintain relevance in Hollywood. After their dramatic exit from the royal family in 2020, they initially garnered public sympathy. However, their continued complaints about the monarchy, combined with high-profile feuds and legal battles, have left many questioning their motives. Rather than solidifying themselves as respected figures, the Sussexes’ public image seems to be spiraling further into controversy.
Their Netflix deal, once seen as a golden ticket to Hollywood’s inner circle, has reportedly faced setbacks, with executives unimpressed by their content output. Furthermore, their Spotify contract was terminated after just one podcast season, with insiders branding them as “grifters” who failed to deliver substantial content.
The Academy Awards snub is yet another reminder that Hollywood operates on merit, not royalty. While Harry and Meghan may still command attention in gossip columns, their lack of real achievements in film or entertainment means they cannot expect to be embraced by an industry that values credibility.
As the Oscars night carried on with dazzling stars and celebrated talent, the Sussexes were left outside—a stark reminder that fame does not always guarantee access. Their rejection was not just a momentary embarrassment but a symbolic message: Hollywood is not as easily conquered as they may have thought.
