Meghan Markle is once again under fire from royal commentators following claims that she may be using her relationship with the royal family to benefit herself.
The renewed criticism comes just after Prince Harry and Meghan lost their $100 million Netflix deal, reportedly due to underwhelming project performance.
According to royal biographer Robert Jobson, the timing of Harry’s recent efforts to reconnect with the royals may be closely tied to these financial troubles.
Jobson: Sussexes May Be “Looking for Handouts”
Speaking on The Sun’s Royal Exclusive, Jobson reflected on the failed Netflix deal: “Well, the deal was always set about $100 million, wasn’t it?
And the talk of that figure sort of blew a lot of people’s minds, but I think that was for productions and things that they’re supposed to have done.”
He speculated that the couple may now be “with a bit of a bowl out, looking for some handouts.” He added, “Maybe that’s why their staff were over here having discussions with the King.”
Meghan’s Moves Called Strategic by Royal Commentators
Broadcaster Sarah Hewson was blunt in her criticism of Markle, suggesting that her behavior follows a calculated pattern. Referring to the Duchess’s past strategies, Hewson commented, “[She] is someone with a game plan.
Nothing happens by accident, and I think Harry relies on Meghan for a lot of guidance through life. Meghan’s got her own plans and business. What is Harry’s? He does look lost and isolated by himself in Montecito. His father’s health is certainly a big wake-up call.”
Reconciliation May Boost Meghan’s Brand
Former royal correspondent Valentine Low also weighed in, suggesting that any potential thawing of relations with the royal family would likely serve to elevate Meghan’s public image.
“There’s also the interesting question, perhaps quite cynically, if they reconcile and the relationship with the royal family becomes one of warmth. I think it will only do Meghan’s reputation something good and help her expand the brand Meghan,” Low remarked.
Communications Teams Meet—But Not the Royals Themselves
Rather than direct family talks, recent “peace talks” reportedly took place through senior communications staff. Photos published showed King Charles and Queen Camilla’s communications director, Tobyn Andreae, meeting with Meredith Maines, Archewell’s chief communications officer, and Liam Maguire, who handles U.K. and Europe communications for Harry’s charity.
The July 9 meeting occurred at the Royal Over-Seas League club, not far from Buckingham Palace, starting on a balcony and later moving indoors.
The meeting focused on preventing media clashes over scheduling, not any formal return to royal duties for Harry. A source with knowledge of the discussion said, “The meeting was with Harry’s blessing.” According to The Daily Beast, Buckingham Palace had recently agreed to proposals aimed at “opening a channel of communication.”
Rebuilding Trust Remains a Challenge
Hewson concluded that any genuine progress will require direct involvement from Prince Harry himself. “I think for these talks to happen, Harry will need to speak to his father one-on-one. This will be really important as there is a big trust issue.”