In a surprising turn of events, Meghan Markle has been removed from the list of winners for the 48th Annual Gracie Awards.
The awards, organized by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation, recognize exceptional programming and individual accomplishments in media and entertainment that are created by, for, and about women.
Markle had been named a Digital Media National Winner for her Spotify podcast Archetypes, but her name has now vanished from the official website.
This sudden change is believed to be a consequence of the recent revelation that Markle and her husband, Prince Harry, staged a fake car chase.
The incident has raised questions about Markle’s credibility and led to a reevaluation of her inclusion on the same list as Marlo Thomas.
Thomas, a renowned actress and activist, will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s Gracie Awards ceremony on May 23rd at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel.
The decision to recognize Thomas is well-deserved, considering her significant contributions to various causes, particularly her work with children affected by cancer and the Children Cancer Research at St. Jude’s Hospital.
Thomas has truly earned this recognition, and it is only fitting that she receives the prestigious Gracie Award.
Critics argue that awarding someone like Markle, who dedicates only 1.5 hours a year to her foundation and fails to practice what she preaches, would tarnish the reputation of the Gracie Awards.
One of the key criteria for a Gracie Award is honesty, a trait that Markle’s actions have called into question.
Furthermore, her Spotify podcast Archetypes has not gained significant popularity, ranking outside the top 20 most listened-to podcasts.
To make matters worse, Spotify has decided not to renew the podcast for a second season.
The controversy surrounding Markle has overshadowed other notable events, such as the Women of Vision Awards organized by feminist icon Gloria Steinem.
Steinem, who had invited Markle to the event, expressed her disappointment and anger at Markle’s behavior.
The magnitude of the awards ceremony and the dedication put into it make Markle’s actions all the more infuriating for Steinem.
It is unlikely that Markle will be invited to any feminist award events in the near future, and some argue that she should return all the accolades she has received as she has not earned them.
Marlo Thomas, in response to Markle’s inclusion on the list of Gracie Award winners, expressed her confusion and disbelief.
Thomas believes that Markle’s actions have given women a negative reputation, far worse than being labeled as crazy or nuts.
Thomas herself is an accomplished actress, author, and activist, with numerous awards to her name, including Emmy, Peabody, Golden Globe, and Grammy awards.
She has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry and society as a whole, making her a deserving recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.
The Gracie Awards ceremony aims to support educational programs, charitable activities, public service initiatives, and scholarships benefiting women in media.
This year’s event will feature a special performance by Sophia Carson and Diane Warren, along with appearances by presenters such as Maria Shriver, Jodie Balfour, Camilla Ludington, and Rachel Lindsay.
AWMF President Becky Brooks commends Marlo Thomas for her groundbreaking role in breaking stereotypes through her portrayal of Ann Marie in That Girl.
Thomas’s charitable and activist work with the Ms. Foundation for Women and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has also had a profound impact, making her a beacon of hope and inspiration.
In conclusion, the removal of Meghan Markle from the list of Gracie Award winners has caused a stir, highlighting the importance of integrity and credibility in receiving such prestigious honors.
Marlo Thomas’s selection for the Lifetime Achievement Award is a testament to her exceptional contributions to the entertainment industry and her dedication to philanthropic endeavors.
The Gracie Awards ceremony promises to be an evening of celebration and recognition for outstanding achievements by women in media.