Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly grappling with "dislike and distrust" from Hollywood's inner circles, as insiders claim the couple has failed to establish credibility in the entertainment industry. Despite signing a lucrative multi-million-dollar deal with Netflix shortly after stepping down from their royal duties in 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have struggled to produce a significant body of work, leading to growing skepticism about their long-term prospects in Hollywood.
The couple's Netflix deal initially generated high expectations, with their first release, Harry & Meghan, breaking streaming records and attracting global attention. However, the excitement surrounding their debut project quickly waned, as their follow-up documentary, Heart of Invictus, failed to garner the same level of interest. Now, nearly four years into their deal, industry insiders are voicing concerns about their productivity and influence.
A source familiar with Hollywood's shifting landscape told the Daily Mail, "Netflix were handing out vanity deals like candy at the time, and so everybody just shrugged their shoulders and assumed their company wouldn't get much done despite the generous backing. But even Harry and Meghan naysayers would have been shocked at how little they've actually achieved." The insider added that with thousands of jobs lost in the entertainment sector amid a more austere industry climate in 2024, there is "genuine dislike and distrust towards them by some."
The perception of underperformance has fueled negative sentiment within Hollywood, where Prince Harry and Meghan are increasingly viewed with skepticism. The pair, who reside in Montecito, California, have been notably absent from high-profile events, including the recent WME Emmy bash in Beverly Hills-a star-studded affair that featured many of Hollywood's biggest names. It remains unclear whether the couple was not invited or chose not to attend, but their absence has only added to speculation about their status in the industry.
Meghan Markle, who signed a representative deal with William Morris Endeavor (WME) last year, has also faced criticism for her lack of output. The agency, one of Hollywood's leading talent firms, promised to help build Meghan's business ventures across multiple areas, including film and television production, brand partnerships, and more. However, industry insiders now suggest that interest in the Duchess has waned. "I don't think mainstream Hollywood ever took them seriously," said a Hollywood producer, adding that Archewell, the couple's media company, felt more like "a brand-building exercise than a genuine production operation."
The discontent surrounding the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has been exacerbated by a Hollywood Reporter article labeling Meghan as "Duchess Difficult" and alleging that her staff is "terrified" of her demanding behavior. One Hollywood publicist noted that it was surprising WME allowed the negative coverage to run unchecked, suggesting a lack of industry protection that high-profile clients typically receive. "It's really striking that WME did not stop this running," the publicist said, adding that the only response from the Sussexes' camp was "no comment at this time."
Meanwhile, Prince Harry has embarked on a series of solo engagements in New York City, which kicked off with his attendance at a high-profile dinner organized by the World Health Organization (WHO). The Duke, who recently turned 40, participated in discussions on mental health and childhood violence, rubbing shoulders with distinguished guests including Queen Mathilde of Belgium, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, and actor Forest Whitaker. The New York trip is part of a week-long series of engagements aligned with the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Week and Climate Week.
A spokesperson for Prince Harry outlined his busy schedule, stating, "During UN General Assembly High-Level Week and Climate Week in New York City, Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, will be in town to advance a number of his patronages and philanthropic initiatives." However, Meghan Markle has not accompanied her husband, further fueling speculation about their strained relations with Hollywood's elite.
The mounting distrust in Hollywood comes at a critical time for the entertainment industry, which has been rocked by layoffs, a changing economic climate, and shifting consumer preferences. With expectations high for content creators, some insiders feel that Harry and Meghan have not met the mark. "It was only a matter of time before the industry press started taking shots," said one senior figure. "It's hard to find anyone with a good word to say for their film and television credibility."
Despite the challenges, Prince Harry remains active in his philanthropic efforts. His work with The Archewell Foundation, as well as other organizations like The HALO Trust, continues to drive much of his public appearances. Later this week, Harry is expected to participate in the Clinton Global Initiative and activities related to African Parks and Travalyst. However, the couple's struggles to find their footing in Hollywood remain a looming issue.
