The public perception of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle has noticeably shifted, especially as even their most dedicated fans seem to be abandoning them. Recently, The Cut, previously supportive of the couple, delivered scathing remarks about their latest Netflix docuseries, 'Polo'. The publication's writer, Danielle Cohen, described the couple's attempts to generate interest as 'tortured' and referenced the flurry of negative reviews faced by the series, calling it 'tedious' according to The Telegraph and 'unintentionally hilarious' as per The Guardian.
‘Seems like this one is bound for the same fate as Markle's beleaguered jam company,’ Cohen pointedly wrote, alluding to Meghan’s prior business missteps. While the docuseries was co-produced by the couple, the focus seemed to rest primarily on Harry, who has long been passionate about polo and allegedly 'had a vision' for the project. If memories of Harry's aborted podcast concept — one where he envisioned interviews with figures like Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump about their father-son relationships — foreshadow its quality, it’s no surprise the series struggled.
Meghan, on the other hand, remains optimistic, declaring to Town & Country last year about the ‘exciting things on the [Netflix] slate’. Yet, followers might find it hard to take her seriously, especially considering her history of projects, like the failed podcast and axed animated series, leading to much disappointment.
Many are left wondering if the Sussexes are running on borrowed time. American viewers no longer seem to be indulging these two beyond the initial shock factor. A recent report suggests indifference has replaced interest, causing one to reflect on the couple's dwindling relevance. 'We've become utterly uninterested. America has grown bored,' wrote one columnist, emphasizing how the once-popular twosome is now viewed more like mere party guests than main attractions.
The shift is glaringly clear within the entertainment industry as well. According to The Daily Mail, sources at Netflix expressed fatigue over the couple's demands, particularly Meghan's. One insider stated, 'It's so much work with her,' underscoring the feeling among executives of being misled about the potential outcomes of their partnership. Meghan’s forthcoming cooking show, which aims to provide relationship advice and culinary skills, has been deemed 'a make-or-break' endeavor by industry insiders who fear it may need to deliver extraordinarily to salvage their reportedly $100 million deal.
When Meghan signed with Hollywood powerhouse Ari Emanuel of WME, the expectation was for her star power to rejuvenate her brand. Yet, as evidenced by her absence from notable industry events, including WME's prestigious Emmy party, the anticipated shift appears stalled. A Hollywood Reporter article highlighted Meghan's image becoming increasingly problematic, dubbing her 'relentless', as Hollywood insiders grapple with growing unease over the Sussexes.
Further complicity arrives from Harry's side. His documentary series, 'Heart of Invictus', was reportedly one of Netflix's most considerable failures this past year, raking just about 300,000 viewers — hardly a crowd pleaser. Their brands seem to be bleeding out relevance, compounding issues surrounding their once-coveted image after stepping back from royal duties.
While Harry and Meghan struggle to remain globally relevant, noteworthy gatherings appear to have omitted them entirely. Significantly, they were left off the guest lists for recent state dinners and high-profile birthday celebrations, including one for media mogul Oprah's friend Gayle King. Without the royal entourage spotlight blaring down on them, they quickly seem to be losing their appeal.
Meghan, maintaining her social ties, was spotted at a recent baby shower for her friend alongside parity figures like Blake Lively. Yet, this felt less like the glittering Hollywood spotlight they had sought and more like a cast-off return to reality, with whispers circulating about whether their narratives are still engaging or merely recycling old dramatic conflicts.
The Sussexes' disengagement from the royal gossip mill has stripped them of the compelling narrative they previously held — royal drama fueled their public interest. Now, without insight or connection to this once vibrant world, they appear uninteresting, leading to the disheartening conclusion for the Sussexes: their proximity to the Crown was the primary ingredient to their previous allure.
Add to this the royal family preparing for their annual gathering at Sandringham without Harry and Meghan, as Charles and William find themselves more central to the story than ever. Donald Trump himself recently mentioned Prince William’s charm and the challenges faced by King Charles, showcasing how much more compelling these royal relations are without the Sussexes’ involvement.
Beyond the familial disconnect, their choices — like promoting jam over nurturing ties with family — leave much to be desired by the public. One can't help but speculate: will Harry and Meghan ever reclaim the charm and buzz they once enjoyed? Or has indifference woven itself so thoroughly through their story, it’s now the final chapter for Brand Sussex?
