In a surprising twist, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex and former actress, has been left off the invitees list for the 135th edition of the Rose Parade in 2024.
The annual event, which attracts millions of eager viewers, has caused quite a stir with this unexpected development.
So, what exactly happened?
Let’s dive into the juicy details.
According to LA Times Magazine, Meghan was initially set to be a special guest at the parade.
However, plans took a sudden turn when CBS journalist and anchor Jorica Duncan intervened.
The reason behind this snub can be traced back to Meghan’s highly-publicized interview with Oprah Winfrey in March 2021.
During the interview, Meghan and Prince Harry made shocking revelations, accusing the royal family of racism, neglect, and isolation.
This sent shockwaves around the world, triggering a crisis within the monarchy and creating a deep divide between the Sussexes and the rest of the royals.
While some applauded their candor, not everyone shared the same sentiment.
Especially in the UK, there was widespread outrage, with many considering Meghan and Harry’s actions disrespectful, ungrateful, and dishonest.
Jorica Duncan, who was once a supporter of the couple and even attended their wedding in 2018, felt personally betrayed by Meghan’s openness.
Living in close proximity to them in California, she had hoped for a close friendship with the Sussexes.
However, the Oprah interview changed everything.
Jorica, like many others, feared that Meghan’s presence at the parade would overshadow the event and ignite further controversy.
Nobody wants a royal drama stealing the limelight from a festive parade, after all.
Taking matters into her own hands, Jorica, who was co-hosting the parade alongside actress Gabrielle L and TikTok star Presley Hosbach, made the decision to withdraw Meghan’s invitation without consulting the Tournament of Roses, the organizers behind the event.
To everyone’s surprise, the Tournament of Roses supported Jorica’s decision without hesitation.
They stood by her choice, leaving Meghan completely unaware of the sudden change.
When she found out, Meghan was reportedly shocked and hurt by the ordeal.
She felt betrayed by Jorica, believing that her candidness was being punished.
In an attempt to reconcile, Meghan reached out to both Jorica and Oprah, hoping for a resolution.
Unfortunately, her efforts were in vain.
The exclusion from the Rose Parade invitees list has left Meghan feeling like she was stabbed in the back.
She believed Jorica’s actions were a direct consequence of her speaking her truth.
The Duchess even sought Oprah’s intervention, hoping that her influence could sway Jorica’s decision.
However, it seems that their attempts at reconciliation have been unsuccessful.
With this unexpected turn of events, the Rose Parade is set to proceed without Meghan Markle’s presence.
The decision to exclude her has caused a stir among fans and critics alike.
As the countdown to the 135th edition of the parade begins, all eyes will be on Jorica Duncan and the organizers, as they navigate the aftermath of this dramatic snub.