The Rose Parade, an eagerly awaited event that captivates millions of viewers worldwide, is set to celebrate its 135th edition in 2024.
This grand spectacle showcases stunning floats, talented bands, and impressive equestrian units.
Moreover, the parade boasts a star-studded lineup of celebrity invitees who join the host and co-hosts in providing captivating commentary and insights.
However, this year’s list of participants notably omitted Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex and former actress.
According to LA Times Magazine, Meghan was initially invited as a special guest to partake in the parade but was later dropped by the parade’s host, Jerica Duncan, a respected CBS journalist and anchor.
Insiders reveal that Meghan’s exclusion was a direct result of her controversial and divisive interview with Oprah Winfrey, which aired in March 2021.
During the interview, Meghan and her husband, Prince Harry, made shocking allegations against the royal family, including claims of racism, lack of support, and isolation.
The revelations sparked a global backlash, causing a crisis within the monarchy and creating a rift between the Sussexes and the rest of the family.
The interview deeply outraged and disappointed many individuals, particularly in the UK, who felt that Meghan and Harry had chosen an inappropriate and sensational platform to air their grievances.
Accusations of disrespect, ingratitude, and dishonesty were hurled at the couple.
Jerica Duncan, a friend of Oprah Winfrey and attendee of Meghan and Harry’s wedding in 2018, was reportedly among those who felt betrayed and offended by the interview.
As a resident of California, living in proximity to the Sussexes, Duncan had previously expressed her admiration and support for the couple, hoping to maintain a friendly and cordial relationship.
However, upon watching the interview, Duncan’s perception of Meghan changed dramatically.
She began to view her as a troublemaker and a dishonest individual.
Duncan also believed that Meghan’s presence in the parade would overshadow the event, generating controversy and negativity.
Determined to avoid such a situation, Duncan, who is hosting the parade for the first time alongside actress Gabriella Lees and TikTok star Presley Hosbach, informed the Tournament of Roses, the organization responsible for the parade, of her decision to rescind Meghan’s invitation.
The Tournament of Roses, initially agreeable to having Meghan as a guest, respected Duncan’s choice without objection.
Upon learning that she was no longer welcome at the parade, Meghan, who had been unaware of Duncan’s change of heart, felt shocked and hurt.
She perceived Duncan’s actions as a betrayal and an unfair punishment for speaking her truth.
Meghan believed that Duncan’s behavior was hypocritical and unprofessional, considering the past praise and defense she had received from the journalist.
In an attempt to salvage their friendship, Meghan reached out to Duncan to address the issue, but her calls and messages were ignored.
Meghan also sought the assistance of Oprah Winfrey, hoping that she would intervene and persuade Duncan to reconsider.
However, Oprah declined involvement, asserting that the matter was solely between Meghan and Duncan, and she did not wish to take sides.
The Rose Parade, scheduled for January 1, 2024, is anticipated to be a resounding success, captivating millions of viewers as they tune in to witness the parade and catch a glimpse of their favorite celebrities.