In the latest installment of Meghan Does Hollywood, the Duchess of Sussex has found herself entangled in a fresh controversy.
This time, the spotlight is on her attempt to turn a cultural celebration into a personal profit-making venture.
Yes, you heard it right.
Meghan Markle, known for seizing opportunities, tried to capitalize on her claimed Nigerian roots by vying for the role of Master of Ceremonies at the Nigerian Independence Gala.
But here’s the twist.
It wasn’t just about being in the limelight.
She aimed for a hefty $1,000 per night fee, along with complimentary tickets for her mother, Doria.
Picture this scene: The Nigerian Independence Gala, scheduled for September 28, 2024, in Los Angeles, was envisioned as an evening dedicated to honoring Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage, not as a platform for Meghan’s financial pursuits.
Attendees anticipated a night filled with dance, tradition, and solidarity, with proceeds destined to support UIU Cares, a community service initiative.
A noble cause, right?
However, Meghan seemed to view it as an ideal chance to bolster her bank balance and public image.
Sources lurking in the shadows revealed that Meghan had her representatives at WME diligently working to secure her the hosting role, complete with a list of demands that would make even a seasoned diva blush.
Complimentary access for herself and Harry – check.
A handsome sum of money for a single night’s work – check.
Any plans to contribute to the charity she stood to benefit from?
Well, not quite.
While rumors hinted at a nominal Archewell donation, it was evident that Meghan’s primary focus remained on her own financial gain.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: Meghan’s sudden embrace of her Nigerian heritage.
Isn’t it rather convenient?
How the duchess, who has grappled with her identity over the years like a skilled chameleon, suddenly chose to showcase her African lineage when there was a paycheck involved.
Critics argue that her assertion of being 43% Nigerian is as strategic as her social climbing, highlighting the irony of her newfound pride in her African roots juxtaposed with her history of, let’s say, aesthetic alterations that suggest otherwise.
But what makes the situation even more troubling is Meghan’s endeavor to exploit her Nigerian background for connections in Nollywood.
It appears as though she is auctioning off her racial identity to the highest bidder, aiming to tap into the lucrative African film industry.
Yet, this is the same Meghan who, as critics point out, spent years downplaying her African-American ancestry, opting to let people believe she hailed from Italy or some other vaguely exotic origin, but not acknowledging her black heritage.
The true tragedy lies in Meghan’s actions overshadowing the genuine experiences and challenges faced by biracial individuals who navigate their identities with sincerity and integrity, rather than treating them as convenient plot devices in their personal narratives.
If Meghan genuinely desires to reconnect with her roots, perhaps she should begin by recognizing the entirety of her heritage, not just the aspects that promise financial gain or public acclaim.
Ultimately, Meghan’s debacle surrounding the Nigerian Independence Gala transcends a mere hosting opportunity.
It serves as a stark reminder of the commercialization of culture, where heritage is wielded as a bargaining tool in the realm of celebrity.