Meghan Markle's relationship with top Hollywood talent agency WME has come under scrutiny after multiple sources claimed she had been dropped due to alleged difficulties in working with the firm. Reports surfaced Monday that the Duchess of Sussex had not met with WME's CEO Ari Emanuel since early 2023, fueling speculation about her standing with the agency. However, a representative for WME disputed the claims, stating that "WME continues to represent Meghan and Archewell."
The conflicting narratives have sparked widespread discussion in Hollywood, with insiders suggesting that Markle's high demands and slow project development may have contributed to her rumored departure. One industry source claimed Markle was "too demanding" and "difficult to work with," leading to frustration within the agency. Another source noted that WME is still involved in some aspects of her Archewell projects but emphasized that the agency is "definitely not working on Meghan's personal business."
The reports come at a pivotal moment for Markle, who is preparing for the launch of her new Netflix lifestyle series, With Love, Meghan, set to premiere next Tuesday. The show is part of the couple's multi-million-dollar Netflix deal, which has faced challenges following their widely reported struggles with Spotify, where their Archetypes podcast was discontinued after just one season.
Tensions reportedly escalated in January 2024, when Markle allegedly demanded an urgent meeting with WME and expected fully developed plans for her brand and future projects. According to insiders, this led to a dispute between Markle and Emanuel, with one source claiming, "Ari was done with her." Another confirmed the incident, though the agency continues to assert that their professional relationship remains intact.
Markle initially joined WME in April 2023, with her representation handled by high-profile agents Brad Slater and Jill Smoller, known for working with figures like Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Serena Williams. Her signing was viewed as a strategic move to reshape her post-royal career, but it remains unclear how much progress has been made on her Hollywood ventures.
The latest controversy adds to a growing list of setbacks for Markle and Prince Harry as they navigate their careers outside the British royal family. Former employees who worked with the couple have publicly discussed their experiences, with some referring to themselves as part of the "Sussex Survivors Club." Allegations of a difficult work environment have surfaced before, particularly from former royal aides who accused Markle of bullying staff during her time at Kensington Palace.
Buckingham Palace previously conducted an internal review of these claims but declined to release its findings. While Markle has denied any wrongdoing, her former press secretary, Jason Knauf, recently reaffirmed his accusations in an interview with 60 Minutes Australia, stating that he "stands by" his previous statements.
Markle's rebranding efforts have also faced complications. She recently launched a new lifestyle brand, initially named "American Riviera Orchard," but was forced to rename it "As Ever" following trademark issues. Despite high expectations for the brand, delays have pushed back the availability of its first products-including a much-publicized jam line-until months after the release of her Netflix series.
