Meghan Markle reportedly dropped by WME after tensions over demands and personal projects
Courtesy: AFP
Meghan Markle has reportedly been dropped by WME, according to multiple sources speaking to Page Six, following months of speculation regarding her association with the prestigious Hollywood agency.
However, WME has denied severing ties with the Duchess of Sussex, asserting that they are still collaborating with her.
Sources reveal that Markle, 43, hasn’t had a meeting with WME's powerhouse Ari Emanuel since January of the previous year, although she is believed to have had meetings with her day-to-day agents.
An industry source claims Markle was let go due to being "too demanding" and "difficult to work with."
It’s unclear when exactly the split occurred, but WME maintains that they are still in business with her.
“WME continues to represent Meghan and Archewell,” said a representative.
Despite the ongoing claims, sources confirm that the agency is still assisting with some of her Archewell projects, the charity she operates with her husband, Prince Harry.
In addition, reports say Markle had an outburst in January 2024, shortly after the holidays, demanding a meeting and expecting detailed plans, though it’s not clear whether this request was for personal matters or related to Archewell.
The incident led to a confrontation, with one insider saying, "Ari was done with her," which was corroborated by another source.
This comes as Markle, a mother of two, prepares for the launch of her new Netflix lifestyle series, “With Love, Meghan,” set to premiere next Tuesday.
Markle had only been with WME since April 2023, where she was represented by top agents Brad Slater, who also handles Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and Jill Smoller, who works with Serena Williams, a longtime friend of Markle.
Another Hollywood insider revealed, “I don’t know what those projects are, but WME is definitely not working on Meghan’s personal business.”
Meanwhile, Markle has been focusing on relaunching her Instagram ahead of her Netflix show’s debut.
However, she was recently forced to change the name of her lifestyle business to “As Ever” after encountering trademark challenges with her original “American Riviera Orchard” brand.
As Page Six reported earlier, the products from Markle’s line, including her much-anticipated jam, will not be available for purchase until months after the show’s release, with Netflix involved in the product development.