Harry and Meghan's Hollywood Dream Fades as They Prepare Return to UK

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, are preparing to leave California and return to the UK, marking the end of their American venture. Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, the couple pursued commercial success in Hollywood, securing lucrative deals with Netflix and Spotify. Their Netflix documentary series 'Harry & Meghan' and Harry's memoir 'Spare' achieved global attention, with 'Spare' selling over six million copies. However, their subsequent projects, such as Meghan's cooking show 'With Love, Meghan' and her lifestyle brand 'As Ever', faced cancellation or reduced investment. The couple's production company experienced high staff turnover, and their Spotify deal ended in 2023. Despite initial enthusiasm, their Hollywood influence waned amid industry downturns and a struggle to break free from their royal association. Critics and commentators note that while they remain marketable, their celebrity status in the US has diminished. The move back to the UK is seen as a strategic retreat, though experts suggest they will never truly become private citizens. The news has been met with mixed reactions, from indifference in California to mockery from tabloids like the New York Post.