Meghan Markle and Prince Harry face sharp criticism over their Hollywood ventures and perceived victimhood

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are under fire once again, this time from prominent commentator Julie Burchill, who has unleashed a stinging critique of the couple’s post-royal life. Burchill’s attack, published in the Sunday Express, paints the Sussexes as directionless and struggling to secure a foothold in Hollywood.

Burchill characterizes Meghan as a “two-bit hustler” whose transition from royalty to celebrity has not gone as planned. She points out that Meghan, once a high-profile figure in the royal spotlight, now finds herself alienated from both her former royal associates and the new celebrity circles she hoped to join. Despite high-profile endorsements and connections, Meghan’s move to Hollywood has been marked by setbacks and increasing public scorn.

“The world has moved on,” Burchill writes, noting the shift in public interest from the glamorous façade of the royal family to the pressing health issues affecting King Charles and Princess Catherine. This shift, according to Burchill, has cast Meghan in a less favourable light, reducing her from a symbol of royal grandeur to a mere reality star known more for controversy than achievement.

Burchill also criticizes Meghan’s role in what she terms the “Victimhood Olympics,” a concept she uses to describe Meghan’s alleged tendency to portray herself as a victim of systemic unfairness. The critique highlights a perceived irony in the Sussexes’ current situation: while they once positioned themselves as champions of social justice and victims of royal mistreatment, they now appear to be struggling with a public image that labels them as opportunistic and disingenuous.

The commentary underscores a broader dissatisfaction with the Sussexes’ trajectory since their departure from the British royal family. Their attempts to leverage their royal status into a successful career in entertainment and activism have faced numerous hurdles, from failed ventures to public backlash. Burchill’s harsh assessment reflects a sentiment that Meghan and Harry’s high-profile struggles have diminished their credibility and influence.

This critique comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the couple’s roles in various media projects and their efforts to maintain relevance in a rapidly evolving public landscape. The challenges they face in Hollywood and the shifting public perception underscore the difficulties inherent in transitioning from royalty to mainstream celebrity, especially when faced with intense media scrutiny and evolving public expectations.

Analysis

Political

Julie Burchill’s critique of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry reflects broader political and public sentiments about the couple’s post-royal activities. By framing Meghan as the “head of the Victimhood Olympics,” Burchill taps into political frustrations surrounding the Sussexes’ departure from the royal family and their subsequent attempts to remain relevant. This critique highlights how public figures can become targets of political commentary when they challenge established norms or fail to meet expectations.

Social

The term “Victimhood Olympics” suggests a critique of how individuals or groups may exploit victim narratives for personal gain. Meghan Markle’s public persona, which includes elements of victimhood and advocacy, is scrutinized under this lens, questioning the authenticity and impact of her claims. Socially, this critique addresses concerns about the sincerity of public figures who present themselves as victims while simultaneously pursuing high-profile careers.

Racial

Burchill’s commentary does not explicitly address racial issues, but the underlying racial dynamics are relevant in the broader context. Meghan Markle, as a mixed-race individual in a predominantly white royal family, faced unique challenges and scrutiny. Her portrayal in the media often intersects with racial stereotypes and biases, which can influence public perception and contribute to the polarized responses she receives.

Gender

The gender dynamics in Burchill’s critique reveal underlying biases in how women in high-profile positions are evaluated. Meghan’s transition from a successful actress to a royal and then to a celebrity has been marked by intense scrutiny of her personal and professional choices. The critique’s focus on Meghan’s perceived failures underscores a gendered aspect of public criticism, where women’s career setbacks are often highlighted more harshly than their male counterparts.

Economic

The economic implications of Meghan and Harry’s post-royal ventures are significant. Their attempts to capitalize on their royal status through media projects, book deals, and public appearances involve substantial financial investments and potential returns. The criticism of their failed ventures reflects economic concerns about the viability and profitability of their new careers. The Sussexes’ struggle to maintain a high profile in Hollywood also highlights the challenges faced by public figures transitioning from royalty to commercial success.