Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have proposed to King Charles III to adopt the titles "Duke and Duchess of Hollywood," a strategic move aimed at enhancing their brand and unlocking new financial avenues, including a potentially lucrative deal with Netflix.
This unconventional proposal is expected to be officially announced in an upcoming interview with Oprah Winfrey. The couple's current titles, Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have confused some American celebrities, prompting questions about the geographical location of Sussex and its proximity to Australia.
Royal expert Bennie Bond noted that adopting Hollywood titles could substantially increase the couple's market value. "The title change to Duke and Duchess of Hollywood could attract tens of millions of dollars," Bond stated to Express U.K., highlighting the allure of such titles among high-profile Hollywood figures.
Meghan, in particular, is believed to see this title change as a stepping stone to further her ambitions in the entertainment industry, including an Oscar nomination for her work on the Archewell website.
Hollywood columnist Chad Chadson commented on the potential impact of the title change, suggesting it would elevate Meghan to a new level of fame in Hollywood, even leading to major film roles.
However, the proposed title change has reportedly raised concerns at Buckingham Palace about its implications for the county of Sussex. Yet, given King Charles III's limited direct ties to the region, approval for the change has not been entirely dismissed.
An anonymous source from within Buckingham Palace revealed mixed reactions among the royal family, including Prince Andrew's humorous request to be named Duke of Sussex, citing his fondness for a local Pizza Express.
The insider also mentioned Harry's threat to publish a sequel to his memoir "Spare" if the title change is not approved, a prospect the royal family likely wants to avoid.
The request for new titles comes after a year filled with personal requests and bold proposals from the Sussexes, including past desires for royal commemorations on UK currency and postage stamps.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry has expressed ongoing concerns about potential betrayals by the Royal Family, often referred to as "The Firm," according to royal commentator Tom Quinn.
These fears were exacerbated following the release of Harry's revealing memoir, "Spare," in January of the previous year. In it, he openly criticized his stepmother, Camilla Parker Bowles, and other members of his family.
In "Spare," Prince Harry accused Camilla of leaking private information to the media to enhance her public image within the Royal Family. He recounted an instance where details about his visit to a drug rehabilitation center in 2002 were made public, implicating Charles and Camilla in the process.
"I had complex feelings about gaining a step-parent who, I believed, had recently sacrificed me on her personal PR altar," Prince Harry wrote, suggesting a complicated relationship with Camilla despite wishing her happiness.
Tom told The Mirror that Prince Harry's physical and emotional distance from the Royal Family has led to a "permanent state of paranoia" regarding their actions and intentions. This sentiment comes amid ongoing tensions, highlighted by Prince Harry's decision to decline a recent opportunity to reunite with his brother, Prince William, at a personal event this summer.
Furthermore, Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, who has recently launched a Martha Stewart-style lifestyle brand, have continued to voice allegations against the Royal Family. Harry criticized the Royals for their interactions with the British press, which he claims involve "briefings, leakings, and plantings." During a conversation with ITV's Tom Bradby, he accused his family of compromising their integrity, specifically citing Camilla's alleged leaks of conversations with Prince William.
Prince Harry's reflections on the dynamics within his family also touch on the challenges faced by Camilla. He acknowledges the difficulties of being perceived as the third party in his parent's marriage. He notes the efforts made to rehabilitate her image, suggesting a complex mixture of compassion and criticism towards the Royal Family's dealings.
Business Times has reached out to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for comments.
