Meghan Markle's Coffee Ad 'Self-Indulgent' But 'Smart Move': PR Expert
Meghan Markle surprised fans when she appeared in a new coffee ad.
The Duchess of Sussex was featured in Clevr Blends' new coffee advertisement, where Markle could be seen working as an intern. The ad showed her stacking boxes, working on the computer and making hot drinks in the background. PR expert Laura Perkes analyzed the video and how it would potentially impact her return to acting.
She acknowledged that Prince Harry and Markle received "so much negative press this year," especially following the release of Omid Scobie's controversial book, "Endgame." Many urged the Sussexes to speak up about the book from the royal correspondent dubbed their "mouthpiece," but they chose to keep their silence. Per Perkes, it's important for the pair to "put positive news stories in the public" to "rebuild their reputation."
"If they're stripped of their Royal titles, they'll need to work quickly to tie in brand collaborations, otherwise their celebrity appeal will diminish, and offers for work will disappear," Perkes told Daily Express. "The fact that Meghan is appearing in an advert for a brand that she's invested in feels a little self-indulgent."
She added that Markle was invested in Clevr Blends' success, and the brand knew that working with the royal "will create the kind of hype that start-up businesses simply cannot create on their own without spending hundreds of thousands on a celebrity ambassador." Perkes believes it's a win-win situation for the royal and the brand.
"Despite the fact that Meghan courts a lot of negative publicity, it keeps her relevant, it keeps people talking about them and does still give her power when it comes to arranging brand deals," Perkes added. "It's a smart move to make and will turn the tides on their run of negative press, showing that she's moving on and focussing on a positive future, away from the bombshells that have been dropped in recent months."
Markle's latest acting project received mixed responses from the netizens. Many were happy to see her again doing the craft she used to do. However, several also felt it was "embarrassing" as she made a full circle by returning to where she came from.
"Now this is SUPER CRINGE. From Palaces to Instagram Reels. Meghan Markle LEFT the Royal Family for this. How embarrassing," one user wrote. Another netizen added, "She left the royal family to be an extra on a marketing skit. At least she finally worked this year. That is one day for the year."
