Meghan’s become just another pay-per-view plugger turning her high profile into high profit

Meghan's become just another pay-per-view plugger turning her high profile into high profit

As a seasoned observer of the ever-evolving landscape of celebrity and politics, I must say, it’s a mixed bag we find ourselves in these days. On one hand, we have the heartwarming news about the Oasis reunion – though, to be honest, if you ask me, they’re only doing it for the dosh, much like my old mate Del Boy did with those dodgy caravans!


I’m curious to understand how Meghan Markle, despite not having launched her lifestyle brand, not attending A-list events, and not traveling to the UK with her husband, manages to juggle her responsibilities as an international businesswoman. That’s my question.

This week, contrary to her usual busy schedule focused on trade and industry, the Duchess of Sussex sat down for an interview with The New York Times. It might seem out of character for her, and indeed, it does to me as well.

Meghan chose to break her continuous pursuit of privacy by speaking to one of the few global publications, including People magazine, which she trusts to handle her personal thoughts and business ventures sensitively, instead of mocking her publicly.

And so it came to be.

Meghan's become just another pay-per-view plugger turning her high profile into high profit

The Duchess was promoting her ‘fashion portfolio’, which is not a posh way of saying ‘knicker drawer’ but rather the small collection of female-owned brands she has ‘invested in’ over the last few years.

One recent acquisition is Cesta Collective, which produces basket bags that are handwoven by ‘talented female artisans’ in Rwanda, finished in Italy and retail for about £700 each. For a straw basket, I find myself shrieking.

In simpler terms, for £556, one might anticipate a complete thatched roof, not just a mini bag small enough to hold a credit card and a fraction of one’s sanity.

Meghan chose not to disclose the amount she invested in the brand or her current shareholding percentage within the corporation, but it’s been verified that her ownership is merely a minor portion.

It sounds like you’re suggesting that they received a sixpence coin, a complimentary jar of jam, and a signed picture of the Duke and Duchess receiving their Golden Grifter Awards for the year 2024.

What is our purpose? I seem to have strayed from my path. Ah, I remember now — it’s to acknowledge and appreciate Meghan’s knack for selling merchandise, a skill that has garnered wide acclaim, even being compared by the New York Times to a sleek fashion truck speeding along the highway of trendiness.

Which, as it turns out, is exactly how she sees herself.

2017 marked a significant moment for Meghan when she carried a handbag from the Scottish brand Strathberry during one of her initial public appearances with Prince Harry. The bag quickly sold out online in just 11 minutes. According to her own words, this event significantly altered her perspective on choosing an outfit. Indeed, it seems like it made quite an impact!

Yet, the dethroned Duchess has only recently been able to capitalize on her royal status fully and make significant investments in herself – all while aiding emerging fashion labels to find their footing. Indeed.

She mentioned that she backs designers who are her close friends, as well as emerging, less recognized brands that deserve more recognition.

These designers like Oscar de La Renta, Givenchy, Stella McCartney, and the lesser-known tailor from Milan, Giorgio Armani, as well as Cesta, are all deeply appreciative of her assistance.

Last year, as Meghan was captured in photos carrying one of their bucket bags during a dinner date with Harry, sales skyrocketed. And when she expressed interest in investing, making her their first external investor, it seems they couldn’t refuse.

To be completely honest, I’ve long been smitten by the enchanting allure of Cesta. They’ve already graced the pages of Vogue as early as 2018, and their coveted bags have found their way onto prestigious platforms like Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop and Net-a-Porter for quite some time now. This isn’t a fledgling brand in need of a leg up; it’s a shining star that’s already captured the hearts of celebrities and luxury fashion enthusiasts alike.

As a fervent supporter, I must say there’s something captivating about the philanthropic business model she embraces – a magnet for a world-class humanitarian like Meghan. She’s perpetually eager to polish her compassionate image on a global platform and bask in the adoration that inevitably follows.

In Rwanda, women craft the baskets, a fact that Cesta somewhat asserts they earn approximately four to five times the typical national wage, equating to roughly £170 per month.

Meghan's become just another pay-per-view plugger turning her high profile into high profit

If you factor in that the women get paid per basket and it takes three to five days to make each one, then by my rough calculation they receive about £113 per basket.

Remarkable, indeed, if such a scenario were reality. However, it would undoubtedly raise eyebrows, given that part-time artisans in weaving, though gifted and diligent, might find themselves in the same income bracket as medical professionals and top-tier executives here in Kigali. Quite an intriguing thought to ponder, isn’t it?

It’s unclear just how benevolent Cesta is in Rwanda, yet there’s no denying the attractiveness of their bags. Surely, the business must be contributing positively, doesn’t it?

Meghan’s idea of goodness is something she eagerly wishes to connect with, like quickly jumping onto a boat from her dinghy as soon as possible.

Additionally, the Duchess mentioned to the press that, in terms of being an entrepreneur, she identifies more as a dolphin rather than a shark.

And also that she is better than you, but you knew that already.

During the pandemic, you seemed to be browsing the web, viewing photos of dogs and houses on sale in Wiltshire, all while sipping on some rose wine, didn’t you?

Instead of being idle, Meghan was actively searching through various fashion brands on her screen, aiming to establish a financial partnership with them. If she could present this collaboration as a charitable endeavor, that would be ideal.

In an interview with the New York Times, the Duchess expressed that she is actively searching for promising new designers, particularly those based in diverse regions, while people are browsing and reading online.

Just like many influencers, Meghan appears to focus on elevating herself and promoting her refined style, often catering to her audience for likes and earnings.

It’s common for celebrities, including some royals, to receive free clothing and accessories, but it seems that isn’t enough for the Sussexes. One can envision long, contemplative nights in Montecito where Meghan and Harry may harbor intense resentment when they consider others – from bag creators to embroiderers of napkins to dress designers – earning profits off of them.

It’s likely not shocking to anyone that she appears to be transforming into a professional endorser, constantly promoting herself in a long-term advertising campaign. Essentially, she has transformed her high profile into a lucrative venture, with prices attached to various items like her ethical diamonds and even the shoes she wears.

The issue lies in the fact that neither Harry nor Meghan possess tangible skills that can be capitalized on; what remains valuable is their fame as celebrities.

He’s a prince destined never to ascend the throne, while she’s an actress forever waiting for her big break. This unfortunate fate was inescapable.

 

Celine’s not afraid to be real

Meghan's become just another pay-per-view plugger turning her high profile into high profit

In an unconventional approach, Celine Dion herself has produced a documentary titled “I Am: Celine Dion” on Amazon Prime. Instead of the typical glamorous portrayal of celebrities, this film delves deep into her personal life, focusing on her battle with Stiff Person Syndrome – a seldom-discussed and incurable neurological disorder that has significantly impacted various aspects of her existence.

Occasionally, Dion struggles to walk, and there are instances where she can’t even sing due to the pain. As the movie progresses, she experiences a severe seizure. The camera continues recording throughout. Her medical team is present, giving her medication, but we witness her fear and embarrassment. It’s uncommon for celebrities to expose their vulnerabilities like this, and it’s challenging not to be touched by this remarkable, admirable woman who battles her debilitating illness with dignity and bravery.

And you also see, in the raw, the emotion and ambition that drives the true diva, even now.

 

Welcome to two-tier land

Paramedics plan to instruct approximately 50,000 St. John Ambulance volunteers on managing severe wounds from knife attacks, given the alarming increase in such incidents. This unfortunate development underscores the state we find ourselves in today.

However, Keir Starmer and ardent individuals like London Mayor Sadiq Khan refuse to expand police authority for stop-and-search – a measure that could potentially discourage such knife-wielding assailants from carrying weapons on the streets. They seem more concerned about avoiding any potential offense in a society divided into classes, rather than ensuring safety.

It seems clear that the Prime Minister isn’t taking action against knife crime, illegal immigration by boat, or violent and drug-related incidents at events like Notting Hill Carnival. Instead, his focus is on penalizing smoking in outdoor areas such as pub gardens and restaurant terraces. This suggests an obsession with control, but it seems he only aims to regulate certain parts of British society.

 

Is it set that Oasis will reunite, yet there’s speculation about whether Noel and Liam Gallagher can maintain a friendship until next year’s concerts? Certainly they can. The reason? Well, let me surprise you a bit – the situation isn’t as rosy as “Morning Glory,” in my opinion; I believe they’re simply doing it for financial reasons. Now, fans are displeased as even standing tickets cost £150. They argue that this working-class, Labour-supporting supergroup should have been more considerate of their supporters. Isn’t it sweetly naive to expect such generosity?

 

Who needs friends like Lily?

In my opinion, Lily Allen comes across as unkind. I must admit, I find myself agreeing with this assessment. Lately, she referred to James Corden as a “perpetual favor-asker” – a rather harsh label for someone she perceived as constantly seeking help from her.

Regardless of who said it, it’s still a very disrespectful thing for a celebrity to speak negatively about another, knowing full well the potential damage and backlash it would cause. Currently, Lily is facing some criticism due to her confession that she gave up her rescue dog Mary because it had eaten the family passports she carelessly left out.

It’s been quite striking to witness the strong reaction online about various topics. The British public has a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of mistreatment towards rescue puppies, and it’s something that friends and celebrities should be aware of. In my opinion, Mary was fortunate to avoid more serious consequences – she’ll likely flourish under the care of a kinder and more considerate owner.

 

What is going on with my favourite couple, Doddery Sir Roddy and Penny the Policewoman? Penny was said to be angry with husband Sir Rod Stewart because he promised to move back to the UK and sell his mansion in LA, but reports say now he does not want to return to Blighty. Clacton or California? I can’t say I blame him. Penny also complains that her marriage is at a ‘stalemate’ — but what 17-year-old marriage isn’t, sigh my long-married friends.

Here’s one way of paraphrasing the given text:

And remember: Rod was one of the first out of the traps back in 1975, when he applied for citizenship and moved to America after the then Labour government brought in the punitive 83 per cent tax rate for high earners.

1. Stewart faced criticism for his Atlantic crossing at that time, but who wouldn’t have done the same? With impending excessive tax increases under Keir Starmer’s administration, are we witnessing a replay of history? Or will Rod make the wise decision and stay with Penny, disregarding the small change?

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2024-08-30 04:26

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