Meghan Markle’s latest Netflix project, Meet Me at the Lake, has suffered a humiliating blow as it was rejected by the Academy Awards for Best Picture.

The film, a romantic comedy that was meant to mark Markle’s triumphant return to acting, has instead become a laughingstock, drawing criticism for its lack of originality and Markle’s uninspired performance.

Based on Clyde Fortune’s best-selling novel, which Markle and Harry eagerly acquired the rights to, Meet Me at the Lake was intended to be a showcase for Markle’s talent.

However, it has been ridiculed by both audiences and critics.

The film’s premise, featuring Markle as a high-flying lawyer who falls for a down-to-earth fisherman, has been criticized for its clichéd plot and cringeworthy dialogue.

Markle’s performance has particularly been panned, described as wooden and unconvincing, leading many to question her acting skills.

Critics have not held back, giving the film a dismal 23% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Words like bland, boring, vanity project gone awry, and failed attempt to salvage Markle’s tarnished image have been used to describe it.

Financially, the film has been a disaster, only managing to scrape together $12 million globally against a budget of $40 million.

It has been completely overshadowed by other successful Netflix projects, such as Bradley Cooper’s Leonard Bernstein biopic and the critically acclaimed Past Lives.

As the 2024 Oscars approach, Meet Me at the Lake is notably absent from the Best Picture category.

It has also been ignored by other major award ceremonies like the Golden Globes and the Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Its sole recognition comes in the form of a Razzie nomination for Worst Actress, pitting Markle against established actresses like Jennifer Lopez and Angelina Jolie, but for all the wrong reasons.

Meghan’s attempt at a Hollywood career has been controversial and often mocked since she and Harry left the royal family in 2020.

Their highly publicized Netflix deal, reportedly worth over $100 million, was expected to produce inspiring and impactful content.

However, their projects have received mixed reactions and significant backlash, especially in the UK.

Their documentary series, Harry and Meghan, was criticized as a self-absorbed portrayal of their royal struggles, while their animated series, Pearl, was accused of being a derivative cash grab.

Markle’s film ambitions have also faced ridicule from former colleagues.

Patrick J. Adams, her co-star from Suits, openly expressed his surprise at her sudden departure for royal life, revealing that he hasn’t spoken to her since.

Jon Hamm, who worked with her in A Lot Like Love, admitted to barely remembering her and was not surprised by her Hollywood failures.

Piers Morgan, an outspoken critic, bluntly dismissed her chances of winning an Oscar, labeling her film a failure that deserved to be criticized.

Since stepping back from their royal duties, the couple’s path has been marred by controversies.

They have faced accusations of elitism and hypocrisy due to their lifestyle and environmental activism.

Their explosive interview with Oprah caused disrespect and deceit allegations, and their upcoming memoirs and podcasts have raised concerns about privacy invasion.

They have become estranged from family and friends who have voiced disappointment and frustration at their choices.