The once-close friendship between Meghan Markle and Victoria Beckham appears to be irreparably strained, with the ongoing “streaming war” on Netflix fueling tensions between the two women.
According to royal expert Ingrid Seward, the fallout between the Duchess of Sussex and the fashion mogul has intensified over time, and the possibility of a reconciliation seems increasingly unlikely.
Meghan and Victoria’s relationship initially seemed to have all the makings of a strong bond, especially in the early days of Meghan’s relationship with Prince Harry.
The two women were seen as friendly, with Beckham even attending Meghan’s wedding to Harry in 2018, a high-profile event that cemented the Sussexes’ status in the public eye.
However, their friendship began to unravel shortly after, with reports indicating that their fallout centered around an accusation from Meghan that Victoria had leaked private information to the press.
The allegations regarding the leaked information have never been fully clarified, but they sparked a significant rift between the two women.
Now, as both Meghan and Victoria navigate their individual paths in the entertainment industry, it seems that the chance for reconciliation has diminished further.
The release of their respective Netflix projects has become a focal point of the ongoing tension.
According to Seward, the feud is exacerbated by the fact that Beckham’s upcoming Netflix show is set to premiere before Meghan’s.
This timing could serve to deepen Meghan’s frustration, as the comparison between the two shows might only highlight the differences in their public reception and media perception.
“I can’t think that their paths would particularly cross again. I think the Beckhams have distanced themselves from Meghan and Harry, but for the obvious reasons that we all know—Meghan and Harry are the descendant, not the ascendant,” Seward told The Sun, referring to the Sussexes’ diminished royal status and the Beckhams’ continued success and popularity.
Meghan Markle’s series, reportedly focusing on her life post-royalty and her philanthropic efforts, has been the subject of intense media speculation.
While her show is set to delve into her personal narrative and social causes, it’s clear that the former actress-turned-royal is navigating a more tumultuous media landscape compared to the Beckhams.
The couple, led by David Beckham’s fame and Victoria’s fashion empire, have managed to maintain their brand, largely avoiding the kind of public backlash that has dogged the Sussexes.
Victoria Beckham’s success has largely been built on her hard work in the fashion industry.
She has consistently carved out a name for herself, not just as a former Spice Girl, but as a legitimate designer and businesswoman with an empire that includes her fashion label, a successful skincare line, and global brand partnerships.
The Beckhams have also enjoyed considerable media attention thanks to David’s sports legacy, but it is his wife’s dedication to her brand that has set them apart in recent years.
“Victoria is actually too busy. She’s got a business. She’s got a very successful husband. She’s got houses all over the place. She’s got children,” Seward added, emphasizing the scope of Beckham’s commitments and suggesting that a reconciliation with Meghan is not a priority for her.
Given the sheer volume of her professional and family responsibilities, Beckham has little time or energy to address the ongoing fallout with Meghan.
In comparison, Meghan’s position within the public eye is more complicated. Despite her high-profile departure from the royal family, her media presence has been more polarized.
Critics and supporters alike continue to debate her motivations and actions, with some viewing her as a champion for change, while others accuse her of exploiting her royal status for personal gain.
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This complex public image has likely affected her ability to secure a smooth return to the spotlight, especially when compared to the more straightforward path that the Beckhams have followed.
Seward further noted that if Victoria’s Netflix series proves to be a hit, it could have a positive ripple effect on Meghan’s show, especially in terms of visibility and media attention.
“If Victoria Beckham’s [new show on Netflix] is a success, which I’m sure it will be, I think it’s got more chances of boosting Meghan’s,” Seward stated.
However, this sentiment is tempered by the reality of the Beckhams’ longstanding popularity and solid media reputation.
The couple’s brand has always been based on their hard-earned success and the relatable “rags to riches” narrative. In contrast, Meghan’s journey is often framed as a “riches to rags” story, which some critics view negatively.
Indeed, the Beckhams’ ability to maintain a positive public image, despite their own moments of controversy, has positioned them in a very different light from the Sussexes.
The couple’s story has been largely celebrated for their perseverance and success, with their efforts in business and philanthropy earning them respect across the globe.
Meghan and Harry, on the other hand, have faced criticism for their decision to step back from royal duties and live a life of luxury in California.
While the future of Meghan and Victoria’s relationship remains uncertain, it’s clear that the divide between them is now more entrenched than ever.
With their Netflix shows set to compete for attention, it’s likely that the media and public will continue to scrutinize every detail of their lives, further intensifying the rivalry.
For now, it seems that both women are focused on their own professional endeavors, and any hope for reconciliation may remain a distant dream.
