Prince Harry and Meghan's Spotify Deal Cancelled: Hollywood Casting a Wary Eye?
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, have been shown the door by Spotify, putting an abrupt end to their $15 million podcast agreement. As per reports, an infuriated Spotify executive reportedly termed the couple as "grifters" in the wake of their lackluster performance.
The duo, famous for their royal roots, were seemingly banking on their royal status for stardom. However, critics allege that the couple's endeavors were lackadaisical, with efforts to secure their Spotify and Netflix contracts appearing half-hearted at best. Sources now fear their $20 million deal with Netflix may also be in jeopardy due to their subpar performance.
Insiders say that the couple is now on the lookout for new opportunities, aiming to become internet influencers for fashion brands. However, it appears that companies are remaining cautious.
Accusations that a producer interviewed celebrity guests for their Archetypes podcast, with Meghan's voice edited in later to simulate her hosting the show, only further tainted their image. In two and a half years, a mere 12 podcasts were produced, causing Spotify executive Bill Simmons to voice his disappointment in public, branding them as "grifters."
An insider revealed, "Being labeled as con artists or scammers is a major blow to Harry and Meghan's pursuit of global prominence and Hollywood A-list status. This alerts other firms that the Sussexes might not be the golden ticket they portray themselves to be."
Rumors about Meghan signing a $15 million deal with Christian Dior shortly after the Spotify scandal were quickly debunked by an insider at the French fashion house, causing further speculation that the couple might have started the rumor themselves in hopes of landing a lucrative deal.
This apparent misstep has not only impacted the couple's image but also their finances, with industry insiders predicting a loss of approximately $10 million following the termination of their Spotify deal. Their ostentatious lifestyle, including a $14.5 million mansion in Montecito, yearly security costs of $2 million, staffing, clothing, and travel expenses, will require new sources of income.
The couple's legal battle in the UK has also proven to be a financial drain. Harry is not only challenging the government over security measures during his visits, but he's also taking on journalists in court over alleged phone hacks. However, he admitted on the stand that he lacks concrete proof.
As their popularity dwindles, they might have to resort to reinventing Meghan's lifestyle blog, The Tig, which she shut down in 2017 after her engagement to Harry. The aim is to rival the likes of actress Gwyneth Paltrow's $200 million Goop brand and the Kardashians' billion-dollar empire.
Despite the mounting criticism, the former royal couple's endeavors in the world of entertainment continue. Yet, their recent fallout with Spotify indicates a growing skepticism in Hollywood. As Kelly Osbourne recently voiced her disapproval of Harry's endless complaints, one thing is clear - Hollywood is beginning to question the Sussexes' antics.