For the most part, the conversation about how and where the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will make their money has been dominated by bad-faith actors, like the Daily Mail and other British tabloids. They’ve been near hysterical at the thought that Meghan and Harry would become celebrity-royals for hire and end up doing milk ads in China or something. Harry and Meghan have their own money, first of all, and they’re getting financial support from Prince Charles for a year, so they have time to figure out their financial futures. And I trust Meghan’s judgment here – she’s a planner and she has a good handle on celebrity-royal branding. She will understand instinctively what is acceptable as far as business arrangements are concerned. Plus, she’s got contacts all over Canada and America. I trust her. So what will the Sussex Royal brand be? And what ventures will they enter into? Vanity Fair’s business section had a better and more comprehensive look:
The SussexRoyal IG: @sussexroyal, which has become the definitive platform for Harry and Meghan’s messaging since its creation last April, has now caught up with @kensingtonroyal, the official Instagram account of Prince William and Kate Middleton. As my colleague Kenzie Bryant noted, “In less than a year, the Sussexes made up the difference, plus a few mil. They are now tied for the most followers for a British royal account.”
The Obama playbook: The current thinking is that Harry and Meghan are poised to replicate the Obama playbook, with the potential to build out a media portfolio similar to the one that has netted tens of millions of dollars for the former first couple through publishing contracts, stadium tours, and production deals with streaming-entertainment titans like Netflix and Spotify. As one London-based talent agent suggested this week to the Associated Press, “They are 100% more valuable than the Obamas. The Obamas aren’t royal. They are.”
Going to Netflix? There was that video of Harry schmoozing with Disney chief Bob Iger, and Ted Sarandos seemed to open the door during a recent event in Los Angeles. Asked if Netflix would be interested in doing something with the couple, Sarandos told the Press Association news agency, “Who wouldn’t be interested? Yes, sure.”..“There really only is one choice for them given the global reach of the royals,” said media analyst Rich Greenfield of LightShed Partners. “It has to be Netflix. Everyone else just doesn’t make sense.” In other words, Greenfield explained, none of the other streaming players that would be obvious contenders—never mind Meghan’s supposedly forthcoming voiceover work for Disney—have the international footprint and genre flexibility that Netflix does. “If I think about Meghan and Harry’s global appeal, which mirrors a show like The Crown, I literally think there’s only one place on planet Earth you’d want to be if you wanted to maximize your celebrity. They’re a global franchise, and there’s just not a lot of ways to truly penetrate the global reach of the crown, pun intended, other than Netflix.”
How about some memoirs? Harry and Meghan may choose to start a little smaller—say, with a book or two. Publishing sources put the likely price tag of a Harry memoir in the ballpark of $15 million, worldwide rights. “I think it would have to be a memoir by him,” a senior industry source told me, “since writing it together would probably be unwieldy and would look tacky and opportunistic. And there might not be enough there yet for a memoir by her, as much as people want to hear from her.” After the hypothetical best seller, what comes next, and what could it look like? ”I literally have no idea,” said Greenfield. “But I have to believe that leveraging their global visibility into some form of production entity would make a tremendous amount of sense, and the Obamas have kind of blazed the trail both on the video and the audio side.”
But maybe the Obama comparison doesn’t hold up: “The idea that there’s an Obama analog here strikes me as a real stretch,” said a high-level Hollywood source. “Mrs. Obama is a proven public intellectual who had a highly deserved reputation, as first lady, for being an advocate on causes that are important to her, and also for being an excellent communicator of those things. Then you go to the 44th president, who is just a world-class rock star, who knows as much about myriad different things as anybody on the public stage. They’re both just filled with knowledge and the ability to communicate. With the greatest respect to Harry and Meghan, what do they know about anything?”
I think it’s interesting that there might be a bigger market – and a bigger paycheck – for Harry’s memoir rather than Meghan’s. That might even be true? Especially given the fact that – don’t hate me Sussex Squad – Meghan isn’t a great writer? But here’s my larger question regarding memoirs and interviews: is there a shelf-life? Would Meghan and Harry need to give an interview in the next, say, six months for it to be relevant and newsworthy? Could Harry get a book deal and then, while promoting the book, give those kinds of guts-spilling interviews? What I think is that there would be more interest in a BOOK from Harry and there would be more interest in a tell-all interview from Meghan. But, again, they have a lot of options and I’m sure Meghan Thee Planner is working everything out.
Photos courtesy of Avalon Red, WENN and Backgrid.
Depends. If he spilled all the tea? Yeah, Harry’s all day. If he didn’t and it’s just basic crap about his life? I’d rather read about Meghan. But I don’t think either will write one anytime soon.
I don’t see either of them doing this kind of book or interview as long as the Queen is alive. Just my opinion, but i think they both have more class and waaaaay more options available to them then to go there. I could see a book or interview about a specific aspect of their lives or causes, but not one that is that personally revealing. I expect better of both of them.
I’m also reminded of something a notoriously private Jackie Kennedy said when asked about Diana revealing so much of her life to the public. Jackie said she didn’t understand why anyone would willingly eviscerate (disembowel) themselves in public.
The Sussexes are already vulnerable to the insane reaction to each and every thing they say or do. Once you begin using public media in place of a private therapeutic session, you can never take it back. It is out there forever for any one and everyone to feast on. I pray they do not choose Diana’s path.
I hope neither does this kind of book until they are much older, sixtyish , for a memoir. This would give them time to make their own mark and the distance to reflect on their lives.
No matter when they do it, people will buy it.
I can’t really picture a book right now. I can picture Meghan with a show on Food Network where she brings attention to women-owned restaurants and such.
Too soon for the kind of book that could be written right now for sure! I don’t know if it ever would okay to really spill the tea based on my assumptions about how they want to present themselves. Everyone should take a chill pill and let them roll out when they have had a moment to breathe 😀
I would read either memoir, but realistically Harry’s life has been more unusual and memoir-worthy. Meghan is an interesting person, but her life – even including years on a cable tv show – isn’t a new and different story until she meets Harry. But I would read the hell out of a Meghan memoir that started with Harry.
There would definitely be interest in memoirs from both of them, maybe more so for Harry, but only if they spill the beans. That’s what people would want to know. the behind-the-scenes stuff. So maybe in a few years, I don’t think they’ll do it while the Queen is alive, if ever.
I think the Obama comparison is tricky. I think when people compare them to the Obamas, its not about their life experience or knowledge or education (obviously the Obamas blow them out of the water in all those aspects.) Its more about the type of work they could do in the future. I don’t think people are going to fill stadiums to hear H&M talk about life, but I think they will be able to leverage their current fame to bring in some big names to raise money for their foundation and various causes.
And I do think we will see some sort of Netflix deal.
I think Meghan and Harry are in very difficult position and need to be very careful.
I cringe every time I read a reference to their “brand.” It sounds very crass.
Mumbles … brands are what it is all about. That is the buzzword now. The world is very crass.
As for their books, well written ones, that touch on the toxic behaviour? I would read that. And … I, for one, think The Royal Family deserves that. Nothing petty or vindictive but just the true statement of what happened. Just the facts. I don’t think either Meg or Harry would ever go there but I bet we would ALL be surprised by how similar the Royals’ behaviour was to Thomas Markle’s. XO
Meghan has been accused of “branding and merching” from the very beginning.
The Sussexes need to be very careful or it will appear as if everything their detractors have said about them is coming true.
The royal family is all about “brand” and image.
I really don’t understand the line about needing to be careful. Or what? the british press is going to spend years spreading negative coverage? Twitter and IG is going to be full of people spewing hateful comments?
We know the kind of work they are going to pursue and the kinds of initiatives they are going to support. They’re going to be fine.
The BRF is a brand. Charles the Eco Warrior is a brand. W&K Normal Keen Family is a brand. But when it relates to Harry and Meghan, suddenly ‘brand’ is wrong?
As the son of Diana, I think a book from Harry has the most potential, but he would need to take a deep dive into his parents affairs and Diana’s death to make it a best seller. I don’t think Harry will consider that productive to his mental health.
To both of your comments BTB…be careful or what? How will it appear as if everything their detractors are saying is coming true? If they make money (which they’ve said they want to do)? If they get too involved in the charities they already work very hard in? Honestly it sounds like you want them to crash and burn.
What is “crass” is people living a life of incredible luxury paid for by taxpayers, just because of happenstance of birth. And instead of being grateful for the handout, they do the opposite, and expect the people who pay their bills to bow and scrape to THEM. All while covering up for a child rapist, and incident after incident of racist b.s. Now THAT’s crass.
I also think the people who are saying “be careful” are actually scared that Harry and Meghan will make a lot of money. They secretly want H and M to fail, and seeing them become independently successful and wealthy is a slap in the face.
@Green Desert, I do not want Meghan & Harry to crash & burn.
It just seems to me that everything the Meghan haters said (and I have read quite a lot of it) about the Duke & Duchess is becoming reality via Sussexit.
I have spent many hours total over the past two years via constant posting on many-many sites defending Meghan from the haters who accused her of “merching & monetizing” while praising her as a humanitarian. Now, due to her leaving the BRF, I somewhat feel as if my efforts were wasted and all-for-nothing.
But they are creating a brand, doesn’t matter if they were still working royals or not.
They’re not going to “merch and monetize” any more than the royal family itself already does. Come on now Bay. You should know better.
I think that’s why the Obama comparison is so weak. In the face of it, sure, it’s the goal of classy people making money from their brand without cheapening it. But his point is very true. The Obamas have a lot of content of substance to offer. The interest in the Sussexes is purely personality based (Or not even– persona) and that’s much harder to leverage. As many are pointing out, even a memoir wouldn’t be interesting unless it’s all about the drama and fishbowl of being a royal. They aren’t otherwise noteworthy enough in any field to be worth the time.
So I think you’re right that their network is what they’ve got. They better move fast because they really need to capitalize on this moment and figure out how that translates to lasting impact.
@Baytampabay what theories have proven true? Could it be that negativity was also designed to drive them out?
@M – agreed. I have said on here before that I think that was one of the factors in their decision to leave NOW. Like, if they knew they were going to be sidelined in a few decades when William becomes king, why not just go now, when they have fame and a great deal of public interest? Now is when they can leverage that fame and interest into a successful foundation.
I dont think its the ONLY factor behind their decision, obviously, but I think it was A factor.
And I think the Obama comparison is only valid for the reason you said – how to capitalize on your brand without cheapening it. That’s what I mean when I say they should follow the Obama model – not that they are the equivalent of the Obamas, but that the Obamas have set a good example.
I think the Obama comparison is that the Obamas are doing their own thing AND working together on certain projects. The First Lady’s book came out last year and was a huge smash. The President’s book is expected to come out soon and will probably be a huge smash too. I think it was very clever of them to keep the publication of their memoirs apart to strengthen their ‘brand’.
I don’t particularly like the use of the word ‘brand’ when it comes to people who are actually about something. The Kardashians are a brand because they have nothing to offer the world but selling themselves. The Obamas and the Sussexes don’t need to sell themselves. They can sell their knowledge, their experience and their insight.
I have no idea which Sussex book would sell the most. I know I’d buy both of them.
What knowledge and experience? I am still to see any knowledge and experience from them worthy of writting a book or film. I read all of Obama’s books because he’s an intellectual and a US president, like reading Thomas Jefferson. The only insight Harry and Meghan have now is into the gossip d’jour. Once the interest in it subsides then they’ll have to prove they are actually worth something. And don’t at me with mental health and surviving stress. There are much more relevant authorities on these topics than a man of vast priviledge and the woman whose greatest achievement so far has been to marry him.
@zilin, it’s unfortunate that you don’t know anything about Harry and Meghan. Both Harry and Meghan have years of experience in working for charity. Harry started a charity for AIDS orphans in Africa. When she was a little girl, Meghan got a major corporation to change one of their ads to make it more inclusive for men and women.
Harry is a decorated war veteran who served at least two tours in Afghanistan (that puts him miles ahead of BoneSpursTinyFists). Meghan was a working actress in a profession where only 10% actually support themselves as actors.
It’s always a good idea to know what you’re talking about BEFORE you start talking.
His would probably get a bigger advance atm because of the potential Diana stories. The tables may turn one day depending on what they do in the future.
In light of everything that’s happened in both lives, each needs to author a memoir, like two rivers very far apart that twist and wind their way across vast lands coming ever so slowly toward each other and merging to create a strong beautiful current of undulating waves. Her view. His view. Their view. They could eloquently shut the system down. 😁
Isn’t their whole thing is to be left alone and at peace, so how would a memoir help that? That is unless they really need money, of course. Otherwise, publishing a “tell-all” or “tell-some” doesn’t sound like the kind of thing you do if you want to lay low.
Rhys … I think their whole thing is to not be horridly slanderized in the media. I don’t think they would mind truthful, sensible, intelligent media coverage.
Exactly Pineapple. Also, I don’t envision their writing styles to embody juicy tell-alls. I see responsibility in them and their union. Intelligent breakdowns of events and honorable insight and reflection.
Agree Rhys. It would comes across as hypocrisy.
I don’t think there will be memoirs, or a tell-all interview, because somehow I think there might be NDAs involved.
If not, I’m all for Harry writing something, especially about his relationship with his brother and the middling in-laws.
I do think there will be a tell-all book or interview from Harry.
He should wait until he does one. The duke of Windsor waited until the fifties before he did his.
I’m guessing no. I feel that H and M will aim higher and never do these things that seem to be “cashing in.”
I think they are aware that there would be criticism if they did memoirs.
Plus that would reduce the mystery.
I think at most, interviews by respected reporters tv or magazine. Not constant interviews though I’m guessing one every 10 years or less
The issue of branding doesn’t concern their detractors who will hate them no matter what or their diehard fans. It’s about the public who hold goodwill, interest or are undecided- the people who will watch their shows, consume their books or attend their talks. They will be more successful if their brand is about advocacy, social responsibility, service and thoughtful or quality products. It will be less successful among these prospective consumers if their brand is about selling products with no connection to social responsibility (like just manufacturing make up or shoes and keeping the profit) endorsement, advertising, – basically conspicuous celebrity commerce or instagram influencer. There’s nothing wrong with making money but they can’t do a 180 on the brand they already have and just immerse themselves in celebrity driven commerce. They should stay away from mega yachts, LA mansions and google eco camp for awhile at least. I doubt they would do that but to say that it wouldn’t affect their brand because haters gonna hate just misses the real target of the population they need to advance their goals – the non-haters and non-diehard fans.
Paul Newman donated over 1/2 BILLION dollars to charity through sales of salad dressing, cereal, etc. Maybe self-important snobs see that as “crass,” but I’m sure the beneficiaries of those charities don’t feel that way.
Mrs. Kraapple. Thanks for reminding us about Paul Newman and his continuing charitable legacy. Paul proved, if done right, even salad dressing can make an enormous difference. As someone who has worked in a large children’s hospital, Paul’s Hole-in-the-Wall respite camps for children with cancer are extremely well thought of by docs. His 1/2 billion dollars in charitable monies that go to this group has positively impacted the lives of thousands of extremely ill children and their families. I think the Sussexes will also be a class act and with the enormous sums they hope to raise will make a real and lasting contribution to the causes and groups they choose to focus on.
I know everyone will hate me for saying this, but I would rather read a book by PH rather than a book by Meghan. No offense to Meghan, I like her, but Harry has had a life. I mean his mother was Princess Diana, who everyone seems to still have such adoration for. That alone would sell millions more books.
Meghan, what would she talk about, her a-hole of a family (aside from her mother, who seems lovely)? Or would she just talk about learning to be a royal? And how it didn’t set well with her?
I’ve always thought if Prince Harry did break away it would be so weird. But, I’m happy for him to be able to have a real life now with the family he’s created.
I agree I would rather read about Prince Harry. He has so much more to talk about. But unfortunately I don’t think it will happen, and if it does the tea will be weak as hell.
I don’t hate you! I completely agree with you. I just don’t think he’ll write a book, at least not for many years yet. His life story is still unfolding.
I dont really read bios.l, wouldn’t read theirs either.
PH would sell more. Men would buy it. Maybe not all men but some army men at least. Probably some ginger men. Women would buy it and of course they’d buy Meghan’s. But would many men buy Meghan’s ?
I really don’t think Harry would write a memoir, he’s so (rightly) concerned about privacy I doubt he would allow that access..but stranger things have happened. I have faith that they’re getting great advice and have good instincts
I hope so. Imo, a book would be a huge mistake.
Harry’s memoir I would read… and then be disappointed that he didn’t spill the tea. I think it’s too early for Meghan’s memoir. Ten to twenty years from now she’ll have enough interesting and noteworthy experiences to fill a book.
tempest … I think you are so, so wrong. As a young actor? Making it in that business? There would be wonderful stories there. Her father … that kook of a sister. The whole toxic nuclear family. THEN she moved to THE ROYAL FAMILY and received, first love and adoration and then she was hit with jealousy and petty vindictiveness. I would buy that book. I would. Girl has lived more in her short life than most of us will in a lifetime. Granted the wisdom of age won’t be there but, man, her experiences!!!!!!!
I can see where Harry’s would be more sought after IF he spills the tea – any conversation about growing up Royal is going to rely heavily on his experiences involving Diana, growing up both with and without her and I don’t see that as a road he wants to take (especially in light of the treatment of his wife). There is also the matter of treading lightly because they are still supported financially by Charles. I can’t imagine upending that apple cart in the foreseeable future.
Same for Meg – her memoire would need to be heavy on the PRE-Royal stuff with maybe some fluff about how they kept their relationship on the DL and some glossy bits about tiaras but without any real tea.
I think the above applies to any speaking engagements as well – they will tread very carefully before revealing any Royal insider information, which I think was part of the exit deal.
Netflix – I can see that happening and agree it is a great global platform. The trick for them both is going to be separating what is generating funds for their Foundation vs. private funds. Starting a brand new Foundation for the purpose of sustaining a lifestyle isn’t the best look.
Having said all of the above; I have no doubt they will be successful on both fronts personal/public and I am interested in watching it unfold.
“Starting a brand new Foundation for the purpose of sustaining a lifestyle isn’t the best look.”
@SheepGonnaBaaa, I think this is their and “THE” major problem.
Why is that a problem? Who gives a fart what the brf or royal reporters think? No matter what they do they will be trashed by them.
I don’t see why this would be a problem. The foundation will have it’s own board and be responsible for generating it’s own income. I don’t believe they would be like the Trumps, who used the foundation as their own personal bank. Harry and Meghan have solid people advising them, I don’t think they are just skipping out there on their own.
So many use foundations for their personal bank- it’s a trick of many political elite, not just Trump. It’s given the good foundations a smear they may not recover from.
I can’t imagine either Meghan & Harry writing a book. I don’t know how successful the Duchess of York’s books were, and I have a feeling that Harry wouldn’t want to embarrass his grandmother, especially since the current arrangement is only for a year. If Harry does write a book, I have a feeling that he will pull his punches in terms of his father etc.
I also agree that they won’t reach Obama levels, but for that executive to say “What do Harry & Meghan know about anything?” is ridiculous. Clearly this guy knows nothing about them.
Who knows what they will do? What does Kanye know about anything? And to me Marianne Williamson speaks gibberish but there are people who swear she knows everything. They will find their audience and speak to them, that is how it works.
Toss up….both would be huge!!!
I don’t believe either of them will write a book any time soon. The Queen and the rest of them completely iced out their childhood nanny, Crawfie, for this exact reason, it’s not likely, IMO, that they’ll go this route.
That photo of Meghan in her halter neck, reception dress, gorgeous. One of my favorite royal wedding looks.
I’d buy both.
I could see Meghan doing a memoir years down the road after they’ve gotten their foundation off the ground and really done some things worth talking about. Harry? Eh. Maybe. I’d read both, though.
I agree MeghanNotMarkle — Those books — written way down the road — would be great and more about Accomplishments and lives well lived then the “tea” that everyone wants now.
I’d be more interested in Meghan’s memoir. Hers is an interesting, self-made woman journey. Only, I doubt she would share much. She strikes me as someone who likes to control and created the narrative.
I doubt either one would write a memoir, but if they did I would buy both in heartbeat! I think some in the (British) media don’t really understand how popular H&M actually are worldwide. Whatever they end up doing is going to be big and make them $$$.
I know that she will never do that but I want meghan’s Memoir so much!!!
I think they would “maybe” do a sit down interview in the next six months or so with maybe Oprah or Gail. But that’s about it on that front. Any books would probably not be written at all OR would be after QE is gone. But who knows.
I liked Gail’s comment yesterday when she and Oprah were blindsided by TMZ. She was asked if she’d reached out to them yet about an interview. Gail said, no and that she wouldn’t do that, as she thought Harry and Meghan would make the best choices for themselves going forward and she respected that.
And that’s exactly why she or Oprah will be the ones to get the exclusive if they chose to do one. Because they aren’t asking for it.
I liked Gail’s comment to her co-hosts when they were doing a segment on Harry’s speech and thoughts on their step back. She said, “not that I have any personal knowledge on this” (or something like that). I think she is great about keeping her personal and professional relationships separate and letting you know that they are separate. Class act.
I think young people (girls, mostly) would be super interested in hearing what Meghan has to say regarding social issues, not just her personal life. You can tell she is an intelligent woman who really cares about the issues she adresses, that is always interesting.
As for Harry, let’s be real, no matter what made him leave the UK and how passionate he may be about his projects, he is Diana’s son and that’s why a potential book by him would sell more than Meghan’s. People around the world would love to know what he remembers of her and the years that followed her death, which is horribly morbid and I don’t think he would do.
What if Meghan ghost writes Harry’s book to practice her writing skills?
Sorry. I had to lighten things up with a joke.
I absolutely could see Meghan writing a memoir about her pre-Royal life. Her father and estranged family and people like Andrew Morton have told the story of her life for several years now. If those sold for Morton and her family then what is Meghan’s story finally in her own words worth? Especially since Meghan is so capable of giving interviews and speaking engagements I support of the book. IIRC Her former agent already said Meghan was about to close a book deal when the Harry news broke and Meghan put her career on hold as far as signing new projects so what is this same book worth now?
Harry’s life has very much hit a critical point where a memoir makes sense. Stepping back from royal duties is a sort of “ending” or natural point to write one. He has a unique upbringing and decades of experience as a pubic figure, intimate knowledge of what goes on at the palace + royal family dynamics and experience in a war zone and charities he built etc.
Meghan is an incredible person but I don’t think there story is quite there yet. It feels to me that hers, as far as public interest is concerned, is just starting. We haven’t seen a resolution with her family (maybe after their lawsuit we will) and she needs some more time building her philanthropy to avoid it being a Hollywood story. Maybe in ten years.
They don’t seem like “tell all” kind of people to me. There are a lot of non-tell all subjects Meghan could write about that would sell – particularly because her fan base is strong and wants to support her. I would personally buy any book she wrote about surviving prolonged traumatic stress. I don’t know how she does it.
“I would personally buy any book she wrote about surviving prolonged traumatic stress. I don’t know how she does it.” – she just ignores it and focuses on the positives. That interview with her former acquaintance, who said that Meghan stopped her once mid conversation and said she didn’t want let any negativity into her life. It’s a very LA kind of thing, too. I’ve lived there most of my life to recognize it right away 🙂
@Rhys, how do you know how she copes? Harry said he watched her suffer in silence, that does not sound like she is ignoring things. To me it sounded like it was breaking his heart. The person who made that comment, her ex-pr rep or whatever, was just being a gossiping b!tch imo.
I could see interwoven memoirs post the deaths of Elizabeth and Charles, but would their be a market for it? And how would William’s story be handled, with care due to his three children?
I think their focus is clear, “build and thrive.”
I think netflix would be a great way to start building their brand. I honestly see them as the type to make Sir David Attenborough style documentaries but not just about planet earth. I think hey will use these documentaries to highlight global issues around Women, HIV, climate change, etc.
When you take their passion for positive impact and couple it with Meghan’s experience in television you’re going to get some pretty moving footage that’s accessible to people all over he world, giving them the global reach. I also see Meghan and Harry being in front of the camera for jest before moving behind the lens to produce and direct once they’ve got some experience under their belts.
Sussex Royal’s merch patents were never going to be about cheap plastic souvenirs, but more likely something like an organic cotton sweatshirt (sustainably produced) with a wicked cool phrase or graphic that when purchased gives a woman in a third world country the opportunity to raise her family out of poverty by providing sustainable and meaningful work. Or something along those lines.
They will do just fine.
I would be way more interested in a Harry memoir. He has lived such an interesting life. Everything with Diana and the military and then trying to carve a role in the RF? Yes, please. But, he will never do it. He seems to value his privacy.
I am thrilled they left the poisonous BRF behind but to say “They are 100% more valuable than the Obamas. The Obamas aren’t royal. They are.” .. That’s a bit over an over-statement. They can do their own thing and be successful but we must be downplay the Obamas’s amazing achievements?
I love Harry and Meghan, but they are NOT the Obamas. The Obamas have not gotten where they are because of birthright. They are a magical combination of intelligence, compassion, dedication and likeability.
I agree wholeheartedly.
I agree. If anything the Obamas are a more valuable commodity BECAUSE they aren’t Royal. Royalty comes via birthright or marriage. The Obamas were neither and had to fight to get everything they have.
I don’t believe it will happen any time soon simply because they are supposedly “reviewing” things in a year with the RF. Now, for all I know M&H already know they are never going back, but on the other hand, we have no idea what will happen a year from now. The RF might just realize they are a big boring snooze-fest without the Sussexes and might be more eager to give them what they want to get back in the fold. I know…HAHAHA…but only time will tell.
These days, books are just a tool to go on a publicity tour. I think they’ll write one, but maybe more of a compilation of “inspiring” stories (charity related) rather than a memoir. They will have to define their new-ish brand but it won’t take long.
Harry for sure needs to write a memoir. He can talk about his life growing up, how is moms death effected him, finding himself in the military, and being a champion for mental health. He can do all that without spilling the tea on his pathetic family that throws him under the bus.
I’m not 100% into the Obama comparisons, because as stated, the Sussexes aren’t at that level yet. Maybe they can be in 10-15 years if they stay focused and continue with their charities and make real positive impact. Maybe they’ll do some production deals but if they are serious about their work, they will build in the good work and service they have done so far. I just don’t see any of these scenarios listed above as the direction they want to take immediately. But agree that Harry is the global draw and Meghan is the sauce on top. They’re both charismatic, especially together, so hope they utilize it well.
I would read the shit out of a Meghan memoir! Think of what she has to talk about! Her family life, struggling and finally making it in Holywood, falling in love with the world’s most eligible bachelor, becoming a princess and duchess, getting hounded out by racism, starting a new life! Wow! Even so, I believe they are both smart enough to know that they need a plan to leverage their brand to its fullest potential. First is philanthopy. That’s what they said they wanted to do. They should launch their foundation–and we’ve already seen that Meghan is capable of creating and seeing a project through from start to finish. Have another child if that’s their plan. Memoirs and books can come later. Another cookbook or book about a project in the meantime. perhaps guest edit more magazines–the Vogue sold out. Again, the British royal rota are a bunch of dummies. Imagine what they could have done with Meghan. Let’s say they built a relationship of trust with the Sussexes. Said reporter could be there at the launch of their project, then write a series of articles on how the project originated and how it came to fruition. Guaranteed millions of reads for their bylines. Now they will be sitting on the sidelines watching as American, Canadian, and other reporters write the articles while they watch Prince Edward unveil tiny plaques.
Or report as Edward attacks commemorative cakes with an extra flourish. That is the funniest he has been in public in years.
Agree with this. The foundation and their current patronage’s should be their focus. They basically are saying they want to work more in a more progressive way. If this was just for fame and access, they would have sucked up to the rota and played spare Barbie and Ken.
I do believe that the Sussexes want to be free and I cannot imagine entering a financial transaction about theirs lives denote
freedom.
I trust that they will tend to their individual well being, look after their family notwithstanding the lawsuits.
They should avoid celebrity at all costs, they do not need a master to live well. Just disappear for a while.
Man cannot live by materialism alone.
Man or woman cannot live for free either. They are not going to “disappear” despite what their detractors wish. H&M cannot go around seeking everybody’s approval for every step they make because we all have a different opinion on what that should be. If they wanted to be micromanaged then they would have stayed under the control of the palace. I trust them to do what is best for them and their family including financially. As long as they are not living on the largess of despots or taking bribes *ahem* they will be fine.
They do not need to hawk their lives either. They are creative people who can use their imagination and write and narrate children’s books. There is a good market in Canada – properly advertised by for example Toronto Public Library.
No matter what the differences- Harry will never tell.
I’d probably reach for Harry’s first, but both would be interesting reads!
Thinking a bit more about these blurbs, this and the other post about this quoting the Mail. It seems like once again, they are trying to diminish her as a person, while trying to amplify her actions as bad-intentioned. He’s the good one, so of course he’s the bigger “ get”, while she’s just the blow hard wanting to make money. They really want to erase her, it’s as simple as that.
Ah now VF is trying to make it sound like there’s some competition between husband and wife. They just do not understand that healthy marriages don’t have those childish issues. Too much time watching William keep Kate under his thumb to avoid damaging his fragile ego.
Yes, they could both make millions writing memoirs. But it’s also true that no matter how circumspect they were, they’d still be dragged through the mud for doing so, and if what they really want is more privacy, truly doubt they’d take this tack. They have too many other, more dignified and less painful, ways to make money.
Could see Harry doing a docs-series and book about a topic close to him, like the Invictus Games, but no way they’re going to be doing tell-alls at this stage. Not if they’re smart, and I have no reason to think they’re not.
I think Meghan should write a self-help book or a lifestyle book. Harry should write a memoir for children dealing with a parent’s death.
I want Meghan to write an avocado and banana cookbook. Just kidding. Seriously, once the dust settles I think they will get down to work and really lean into what they have established so far. They’re not writing memoirs or tell-all’s, doing tv shows, etc. The press will continue to attack, they’ll probably suck it up and show up in the U.K. at some point, and they’ll get on with it. The thing is the tabloids and the press have played all the cards now and they know how they operate. They know every move and expenditure will be scrutinized and picked apart. The NY Times podcast The Daily has a very interesting perspective relating to Brexit. It hits some of the nails on the head, but doesn’t quite get into all the drama or press agenda. But a really great take. Even if they don’t do a ton this year, just focus on their family, their marriage, and building ties privately, that will be enough for me. Also hope they win their lawsuits, and win big,
I would love them to do a book together. Chapter by chapter is he said, then she said. So from 1981 to 1986, first Meghan tells her memories and then Harry gives his. The young adult stages I would find interesting. I would love to read the chapter of their first date, both takes on it. From the different perspectives.
The royal family is a brand and if they come for the Sussexes About branding we should all call them out on hawking tea cloths during the Cambridges’ wedding.
I could see them writing memoirs eventually, but without the tell all aspect. I think Harry will always be relevant, especially in relation to his mental health following his mothers passing. I could see him going this route and trying to bring mental health awareness to the forefront.
As far as forming media deals, I could see them being very successful at producing documentaries highlighting their Charity work or other interesting topics from around the world. They clearly will not stop being philanthropists anytime soon, and I think they have the right to profit from their endeavors in a way.
Is it true that an LA lawyer also trademarked the brand Royal Sussex? Anyone knows about it?
Yes, that’s true, but he did it to be an asshole and prove a point. Basically he did it in the US in the hopes that H&M would be like “oh crap, that didnt occur to us, we’re so out of our depth here!” But H&M had filed an international copyright/trademark so their claim trumps his (apparently, I know nothing about copyright law!)
I would love to read a self-help book by Meghan about self care, living your best life and overcoming challenges. It’s in her Tig wheelhouse and then be useful for diseccting maybe for how things when down in the RF, she could be pointed, but not direct. I don’t know that she would ever, likely as not, but I would because I’m petty.
The problem with memoirs is that too many people with too little to actually say take themselves way too seriously and put cr*p on the book market that no tree should have died for in the first place. Now, with Megan’s or Harry’s memoir however… I might support the murder of trees.
Eh. Give it about 10-15 years and *then* maybe Harry will do a tell-all book.
Anytime soon? Nope. I don’t see a book from him at all frankly. A documentary about what *living* as a royal vs living away from the royal life, maybe. I can see him doing that. Keeping it all compelty focused on him and how *he* feels. But he won’t be spilling any Royal Tea anytime soon.
I am in Meghan stand now but I wouldn’t have known about her without Harry and I want to hear from Harry now her in 20
I don’t think there will be any interviews or tell all books. I think they would have most certainly signed NDAs as part of their exit and Harry definitely wouldn’t while his grandmother is still alive. I think Harry said all he could legally say in his speech and will keep it at that at least for now. Perhaps in the future they may consider. I also don’t think Charles will ever let it happen. He wouldn’t want a repeat of his and Diana’s interviews. I don’t think it will serve anyone well just the tabloids and people who would love to read the tea, myself included. I just don’t think it will happen.
After the inevitable divorce their will be a book – from Meghan. Right now they should lay low and make their plans with careful consideration. Their exit from the royal family was messy even if it was necessary. I mean who sucker punches a 93 year old granny with an ill 98 year old husband? All of the effort put into building a brand intended to leverage his royal heritage has left them looking slightly immature, amateur and elitist. Really they have $40M to tide them over and should focus on the peace they want and their young child. There is time for a sustainable career that builds on their individual talents without trading on the royal life they so desperately wanted to leave.
The granny who knew about the plans for months& asked them to draw up plans was sucker punched? Sure Jan. if the exit was messy those who leaked the plans are to blame as could have been resolved before going to press. And in fact might have done something to help with why her employees were unhappy to avoid situation arising in the first place.
Plus what’s more elitist than the British royal family as has been confirmed through this whole situation.
@Gruestone The palace knew about discontent. Not sure they knew about the website, trademarks and deals lined up. Reports say the Queen saw the IG leave message and site 10 minutes before it was Live.
Elitist is wanting to accept the perks of royalty while being free to do their own thing, which isn’t really their own thing since they are leveraging a brand they didn’t create and weren’t around long enough to enhance.
I understand why they wanted to leave. Just saying they could have handled it better, especially with all the high priced branding help they had…. at the end of the day they made the decision to go nuclear. I don’t think the ‘leaker’ had all the ability to publish their site.
If they have been told to draw up detailed plans then that’s why there was a website. Is this the Queen not knowing like how the BBC said she approved the ANDREW newsnight interview which took place at her main site then suddenly when there was a backlash she didn’t know?🤔
A lot of royals have trademarks, Prince Charles has over 100 registered, Duchess of Cambridge trademarked her name on lots of goods back in 2013 but you notice she hasn’t launched products- it’s a protective measure https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/9962791/Kate-Middleton-makes-her-mark-as-an-intellectual-property.html
KATE& William’s foundation registered trademarks the day after Sussex Royal but you note no controversy about that. What are the deals they have lined up as you seem to have inside knowledge?
Definition of elitist “ a person who believes that a society or system should be led by an elite.” which is exactly what the BRF is.
I doubt they’ll write a tell all so soon! Meghan’s SOLD OUT vogue issue is an indication of how successful their brand will be. The BITTER+jealous haters are petrified knowing how big their future is and the rise in Instagram account followers is proof that they will continue to rise after leaving RF.
I predict Meghan will surpass Diana’s popularity especially in the commonwealth and I look forward to seeing her go visit a female or social care charity with her mother and we hear more about how she cared for Thomas’s mother before she died which will further highlight how kind & loving Doria is. The lawsuit will also expose the tabloids smearing campaign and maybe their collusion with KP/BP especially Bill who is said to have leaked Thomas’s location before the wedding. We will finally hear about that man’s abusive past and how Meghan supported him financially.
The courtiers and RF are in for a rude awakening. They so underestimated the Sussexs brand and how loved they by particularly millennials , liberals and people around the world.