In a surprising turn of events, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, was spotted in a cameo appearance for a coffee company she holds shares in.
The Instagram ad for Cleverblends features Markle as a background extra, performing various tasks such as stacking boxes, making hot drinks, and working on a computer in the digital department.
However, the highlight of the ad comes when Markle fails to execute a fist bump with another team member, leading to laughter from everyone on set.
Markle, who has been an investor in the trendy oat latte brand since 2020, can be seen throughout the ad as an extra, while CEO and co-founder Hannah Mendoza walks around the company’s headquarters, expressing gratitude to the team for their hard work in 2023.
Cleverblends shared the video on Instagram today, captioning it with, “Damn you’re keeping us busy right now.
Had to call in some reinforcements.
So grateful for the immense love and support this year.
Thanks for helping us keep the latte loving dream alive and thriving.”
It was confirmed in December 2020 that Markle had invested an undisclosed sum in Cleverblends, a brand known for its range of lattes in powder form.
However, it should be noted that the company faced controversy in the past when it was discovered that their coffee contained dangerous ingredients, despite being advertised as all-natural.
Changes were subsequently made to ensure consumer safety.
Some critics argue that Markle’s investment in the company was merely a self-promotion tactic to benefit her own financial interests.
Interestingly, the release of Cleverblends’ video coincided with the airing of a BBC video featuring Princess Catherine, also known as Kate Middleton.
The Duchess of Cambridge appeared in an episode of the BBC2 docuseries Secrets of the Aquarium, filmed at the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth.
This visit to Plymouth marked Kate’s last official visit in July 2022, during which she participated in the Great Britain Sail Grand Prix.
The filming for Secrets of the Aquarium took place on the same day.
During the episode, Kate emphasized the importance of seagrass and its role in combating climate change.
As part of the activity, children created seagrass mats to be planted off Plymouth’s shores, contributing to marine health and blue carbon capture.
The six-part documentary series, which took 18 months to produce, showcases the dedication of the staff at the National Marine Aquarium as they care for over 5,000 fascinating animals.
Comparing the two videos, it is evident that Kate’s appearance garnered more attention and praise than Markle’s cameo.
Critics argue that Markle, once a successful actress in the TV series “Suits,” has now resorted to doing second-rate cameos for products of questionable quality.
Some speculate that Markle’s involvement in Cleverblends’ video may be due to limited options, considering the negative associations surrounding the brand’s history with lead contamination and health violations in August 2021.
Adding fuel to the fire, Cleverblends’ video was released shortly after the announcement and airing of Princess Catherine’s cameo.
This timing has led to speculations of jealousy and competition between the two duchesses.
In addition, it has been observed that comments critical of Markle’s involvement in the ad are being deleted on social media platforms.
Many believe that Markle had the opportunity to lead a luxurious life within the royal family and support high-profile acting-related charities.
However, her decision to star in an Instagram commercial for a home business has surprised some.
It is worth noting that this self-mocking approach is uncharacteristic of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have previously shown sensitivity towards satirical portrayals of themselves.