In the wake of notable setbacks in their post-royal careers, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, reportedly view their recent struggles as the result of unfortunate timing and uncontrollable circumstances.
Sources in contact with the couple suggest that the Sussexes attribute their difficulties to circumstances beyond their control, such as the global COVID-19 pandemic and the sorrowful passing of Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth II, rather than personal missteps.
These global events, they believe, overshadowed their attempts to carve out an independent brand and career, from their explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey to the launch of Markle's "Archetypes" podcast, according to anonymous insiders. It is alleged that the pair feels their efforts have been consistently upstaged by greater world events since their departure from royal duties in 2020.
However, such claims have drawn both sharp criticism and support from the online community. Twitter users have taken the conversation to the platform, engaging in a vigorous debate over the Sussexes' purported attributions of bad luck.
Critics contend that the couple's current woes are not the result of unfavorable fortune but rather a series of poor decisions. As one user argued, the couple cannot seem to take responsibility for their own actions. Another voiced their opinion, expressing that the pair are largely irrelevant.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have landed several deals in various industries following their exit from the British Monarchy.
However, supporters of the Sussexes quickly countered, stating that despite the criticism, the Duke and Duchess continue to dominate headlines. On what would have been Princess Diana's 62nd birthday, fans sent heartfelt messages to the couple, celebrating their love story as an enduring legacy of the late princess.
Notwithstanding the public opinion, industry professionals have also weighed in on the Sussexes' career struggles. Jeremy Zimmer, CEO of United Talent Agency, stated that Meghan Markle, who recently had her podcast dropped by Spotify, might not be the exceptional talent they had hoped. Similarly, Bill Simmons, a Spotify executive, expressed regret over their failed negotiation with the couple, branding them as opportunists.
Spotify's official statement on ending its association with the Sussexes attributed the decision to economic challenges, resulting in a downsizing of their workforce. This has led to further speculation about the stability of the Sussexes' $100 million deal with Netflix. Nonetheless, a Netflix representative recently reassured that their collaboration with Archewell Productions remains robust, with several projects currently in progress.
While the Sussexes have yet to respond to these reports, the question remains: Is their career turmoil a matter of bad luck or a consequence of their choices? The jury, it seems, is still out.
