Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have swiftly released a video showcasing the impact of their foundation, Archewell, for the year 2023.
This move, just hours after a heartwarming video of the Princess of Wales at a baby bank with Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, has stirred interest within royal circles.
The timing, following the fallout from Omid Scobie’s controversial book “Endgame,” has raised eyebrows regarding the trajectory of ‘Brand Sussex.’
A Unique Glimpse into Archewell’s Initiatives
In the one-minute video, the royal couple highlights the causes and people their foundation has supported throughout the year. Notably, this release deviates from their usual practice of sharing such videos in January.
The footage includes Meghan’s visit to the Fisher House Foundation in Los Angeles, calls to entrepreneurs, appearances at a mental health summit in New York, and a visit to The Marcy Lab School in Brooklyn.
Additionally, the video showcases the rebuilding of a playground in Uvalde, Texas, following a tragic massacre in 2022.
Balancing Acts: Royal and Hollywood Ventures
Amidst discussions about ‘Brand Sussex,’ Meghan Markle’s recent signing with William Morris Endeavor (WME) has also come under scrutiny.
Reports suggest that WME, whose clients include Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson and Serena Williams, may be reconsidering its association with the Duchess. This speculation adds a layer to the narrative of Meghan’s attempt at a Hollywood relaunch.
Detailed Impact Report and Meghan’s Inspiration
Alongside the video, the couple released a 25-page impact report detailing their foundation’s efforts.
Meghan emphasized that her work with Archewell was inspired by her time in the royal family, specifically her support for the Hubb Community Kitchen following the Grenfell Tower fire.
The report outlines their commitment to fostering community and responding to evolving challenges.
Challenges and Predictions: The Future of ‘Brand Sussex’
Despite their efforts, brand experts, including crisis manager Mark Borkowski, express skepticism about the success of ‘Brand Sussex’ post-“Endgame.”
Borkowski believes the fallout from the book has backfired for the Duke and Duchess, and Meghan’s Hollywood relaunch may not be as successful as anticipated.
He predicts that 2024 will be a critical year for them, either leading to a positive recovery or the undoing of their brand. The couple’s perceived negativity and the dignified silence from the Royal Family contribute to the challenges they face.
Meghan’s Hollywood Return: A Double-Edged Sword?
Brand and culture expert Nick Ede suggests that “Endgame” could potentially damage Meghan’s career, comparing it to Prince Harry’s memoir, “Spare.” Ede highlights concerns that Meghan may become ‘too hot to handle’ for her representatives in LA due to the ongoing controversies, including the recent race row allegations.
The silence from the Sussexes since the book’s release has also sparked speculation about potential legal challenges from Meghan’s family, adding to the complexities of her Hollywood endeavors.
