Reality star says the Sussexes lack the relatability needed to make their brand work
Bethenny Frankel is weighing in on Meghan Markle and Harry’s business ventures, suggesting the couple’s brand struggles because it doesn’t feel relatable to the public.
The Real Housewives of New York City alum, recently named US Weekly’s Entrepreneur of the Year, pointed out that relatability often makes or breaks celebrity businesses. Using the Sussexes as an example, she explained, “They’re good, decent people who didn’t want the fame, but they also didn’t want to give up the lifestyle.”
Frankel said their move to Montecito has made it harder for their projects to resonate. “It’s hard for things to land. They knew they had a certain window of opportunity, so they signed all these different deals, but it’s still not easy,” she added.
Since stepping down from royal duties in 2020, the couple have pursued multiple projects. Their Netflix documentary Harry & Meghan was a global talking point in 2022, and their five-year deal with the platform has since been renewed. Meghan is also preparing her new TV series With Love, Meghan while expanding her lifestyle brand As Ever.
Still, Frankel believes their road will be a challenging one. “Business is really hard,” she said. “I respect their loyalty to each other, but it’s not that simple. If it were, everyone would succeed at it.”
