Meghan Markle, known globally as the Duchess of Sussex and previously as Rachel Zane on the hit TV show 'Suits', is at a pivotal point in her career. With rumors circulating about her potential return to the show's second spinoff series, experts weigh in on the strategic moves she should make to balance her heightened stardom with prudent financial negotiations.
Before her royal ascent, Markle was a prominent figure in the world of television, with her role in 'Suits' earning her widespread recognition. The show, which bid farewell in 2019, is poised for a reboot, and fans are eager to see if Markle will reprise her role. PR expert Ryan McCormick, speaking to an outlet, stressed the importance of this opportunity for Markle's image, suggesting that being associated with a positively viewed project could bolster her public perception and offer a buffer against criticism.
However, McCormick cautioned against overreaching in salary negotiations. He advised Markle to be appreciative of the opportunity and maintain a gracious demeanor with everyone involved in the production. "Because Meghan's profile has risen considerably since her previous run, I think she should negotiate a healthy salary increase but, not get greedy," he remarked, emphasizing the potential reputational risks of demanding too high a fee.
These sentiments were echoed in a report by The Mirror, which hinted at the possibility of Markle negotiating a significant pay rise for her return to 'Suits'. The Duchess, who reportedly earned £37,000 per episode in her earlier stint, has seen her star power surge since leaving the show. But with this increased fame comes the risk of being perceived as overambitious in financial demands, a move McCormick warns could be detrimental to her reputation.
The speculation around Markle's return gained momentum following a statement by her former co-star Patrick J. Adams, teasing the possibility of their on-screen reunion. This has led to discussions about the financial aspect of her potential comeback, with PR expert Mayah Riaz suggesting Markle could reasonably demand a substantial hike in her episode fee, considering her elevated profile.
These developments come amidst reports of financial challenges faced by Markle and her husband, Prince Harry. Royal author Tom Bower, speaking to Closer magazine, highlighted the couple's lack of new income streams and unsuccessful attempts at relaunching themselves post-royal life. The financial aspect of a 'Suits' return could thus be a crucial factor for the couple, offering a potentially lucrative opportunity amidst their current economic situation.
Markle's decision-making process also reflects the delicate balance of maintaining a high public profile while managing career choices. Kinsey Schofield, in an interview, mentioned Markle declining an invitation to the Golden Globes for a brief reunion with her 'Suits' co-stars. This decision, according to Schofield, was likely influenced by the media landscape being oversaturated with the couple and the advice to be cautious with their next steps. The risk of a potential 'roast' during the show, as exemplified by host Jo Koy's joke about the couple's Netflix deal, might have played a role in her decision to steer clear of the event.
Schofield also highlighted Markle's increased celebrity status, which has evolved significantly since her time on 'Suits'. "Love her or loathe her, she's a hot topic and, quite honestly, a much bigger star than she was during her stint on Suits," Schofield noted. This elevated status has reportedly influenced Markle's preferences, with Schofield suggesting that the Duchess would be more inclined to appear alongside A-listers like Oprah Winfrey or Reese Witherspoon, which would lend her additional credibility and elevate her professional standing.
As Markle navigates her post-royal career path, her choices will be closely watched, reflecting not just her personal brand but also the broader dynamics of celebrity, public perception, and the entertainment industry. Her potential return to 'Suits' represents more than just a professional engagement; it is a strategic decision that could have far-reaching implications for her image and financial stability.
