Meghan Markle, the former actress turned self-proclaimed Duchess of Sussex, found herself in an embarrassing situation at the South by Southwest SXSW Festival in Austin, Texas.
On Monday, she attempted to crash the festival and join the opening keynote panel featuring prominent figures such as feminist and human rights advocate, New York Times bestselling author Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, along with award-winning journalist Katie Couric, actress Brooke Shields, and sociologist Nancy Wainewin.
The panel, moderated by Aaron Haynes, was set to delve into the significance of representation in media and entertainment, focusing on the challenges women encounter both on and off the screen.
Despite the panel’s intended discussion topics, Meghan appeared to have her own agenda.
Having relocated to California with Prince Harry and their children after stepping away from the royal family, Meghan seized the opportunity to showcase her controversial Netflix deal, which has faced widespread criticism.
She also sought to dispel rumors circulating online that her children, Archie and Lilibet, were not real but rather dolls or digitally altered images.
Claiming to set the record straight, Meghan displayed purported family photos taken at their Montecito residence.
However, the audience quickly discerned that the images were doctored, depicting the children with varying features, skin tones, and hair colors, raising suspicions of manipulation.
The festival attendees, who had invested a considerable sum to participate in the event, reacted with shock and outrage at Meghan’s apparent deception.
Displeased by her attempt to exploit her children for personal gain, some audience members vocalized their disapproval through boos and walkouts.
Despite efforts by fellow panelists to redirect the conversation, Meghan persisted in diverting attention to her family and Netflix venture.
The situation escalated when host Erin Haynes, a respected journalist known for her coverage of race, gender, and culture, intervened.
Haynes unreservedly confronted Meghan, condemning her actions as deceitful and self-serving, labeling her behavior as narcissistic and delusional.
Haynes’ bold stance garnered applause and support from both the audience and fellow panelists, who commended her for holding Meghan accountable.
In contrast, Meghan appeared stunned and indignant, unable to respond before security personnel escorted her offstage, leaving her visibly flustered.
Haynes’ rebuke resonated with many observers, who praised her forthrightness and condemned Meghan’s lack of integrity and respect.
Criticism mounted against Meghan, questioning her credibility and mental well-being, prompting calls for professional intervention.
The fallout from Meghan’s SXSW debacle reverberated across media platforms, igniting discussions about her and Harry’s post-royal trajectory in the United States.
While the couple has endeavored to establish themselves as global influencers and philanthropists through high-profile partnerships with Netflix and Spotify, their actions, including the controversial interview with Oprah Winfrey, have elicited significant backlash.
The incident at SXSW served as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the couple as they navigate public scrutiny and strive to redefine their roles on the world stage.