On October 19, 2024, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures held its annual gala, a key fundraising event that supports its exhibits, educational initiatives, and public programming.

Think of it as the Oscars’ less glamorous sibling—always invited to family gatherings but often overlooked.

This year, however, the absence of Meghan Markle from the guest list raised eyebrows and sparked speculation.

Dressed in a gown that seemed more appropriate for a Victorian tea party than a Hollywood gala, Markle’s conspicuous absence left many wondering what happened.

Was her invitation lost in the shuffle?

The host committee, which includes around 100 prominent individuals and companies, didn’t seem to have played a role in excluding her.

At the helm was the ever-controversial Anna Wintour, known for her selective guest list choices, including welcoming a Kardashian while seemingly blocking Markle.

Among those on the committee were notable figures like Gabrielle Union and Ted Sarandos from Netflix, alongside Brian Robbins of Paramount.

It’s intriguing to consider that Robbins, who has previously mingled with Markle and even invited her to a premiere in Jamaica, would have no trouble extending an invite for such a local event.

Yet, here we are—no sign of Meghan.

The connections don’t end there.

Apple Original Films produced “Harry, The Me You Can’t See,” and Louis Vuitton crafted the gown Markle wore at the Ripple of Hope Awards.

With so much potential for positive PR, one would think they’d seize the opportunity to include her.

And let’s not forget about J.P. Morgan Chase, The Disney Company, and Orlando Bloom, who is rumored to be a close friend.

Where are the snapshots that would suggest otherwise?

No photos, no friendship, it seems.

With at least four possible avenues for an invitation, Markle’s absence certainly raises questions.

Hollywood has long kept the Sussexes at a distance, but does this also extend to their so-called friends?

It appears so.

Watching Markle get publicly sidelined by a gathering of industry elites feels like witnessing a slow-motion train wreck.

The growing transparency of Hollywood’s sentiments towards the couple is hard to ignore.

And then there’s the 40 by 40 initiative, where Markle suggested women returning to work seek mentors in unrelated fields.

What was she thinking?

Instead, she could have made a meaningful impact by encouraging women to dedicate 40 minutes to community service or practical support.

Yet, it seems her approach leans more toward ideas than tangible actions, perhaps because taking real action doesn’t fit into her playbook.

Inviting Markle to an event is like tossing a grenade into a party—there’s bound to be some drama, and the fallout is unpredictable.

With a reputation that some perceive as problematic, it’s no surprise that attendees might prefer to keep their distance.

After all, nobody wants to find their name in a future tell-all or endure an awkward encounter with someone they barely know.

Moreover, there’s the little matter of the hefty donations expected from attendees.

Would Markle even be able to meet those financial expectations?

This question adds another layer to her absence, suggesting that the dynamics of Hollywood’s elite may not be as welcoming as they once seemed.