In the world of television and streaming, awards are a significant measure of success and recognition. Recently, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, found themselves in the spotlight of the awards circuit, albeit with mixed results. Despite missing out on an Emmy nomination, the couple has been nominated for the 2023 Hollywood Critics Association (HCA) TV Awards, a development that has sparked a lively discussion among royal experts.
The nomination is for their Netflix docuseries "Harry & Meghan," which was considered for the category of Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series at the Emmys but did not secure a nomination. The series, a revealing look into the lives and experiences of the Sussexes, has been a topic of intense discussion and media coverage.
Robert Jobson, Evening Standards royal editor, believes that the HCA nomination is a recognition of the couple's work. "It's an acknowledgment of what was, actually if you step back from it, and step back for the politics of it, and you know, it was a revelatory documentary," Jobson said. "It had quite a lot in it that we were all writing about and talking about, so yeah, it's probably worthy of some sort of award."
Jobson also suggested that the Sussexes might be quietly pleased with the recognition, despite the Emmy snub. "I'm sure that they're probably secretly quite pleased that they won an award with it, but as you say, I think it would have been better to get something more prestigious," he added.
However, Matt Wilkinson, The Sun's royal editor, questioned whether the Sussexes' desire to win awards aligns with their royal status. "I mean, remember, royal families should be handing out awards, not going to pick up awards," Wilkinson pointed out. He also speculated that the couple might be disappointed about missing out on an Emmy nomination, which would have added significant credibility to their media career.
Christine Ross, host of the "Royally Us" podcast, noted that the HCA Awards are "quite prestigious" and "well respected" within the field, although they do not have the glamour of the Emmys.
As the Sussexes continue to navigate their post-royal life and media career in America, their journey is being closely watched and analyzed. The HCA nomination, despite the Emmy miss, is a testament to their impact and the interest they generate. As they continue to produce content and share their stories, more nominations - and perhaps wins - may be on the horizon.