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Why the Royal Family can't cut the Sussexes off

Although numerous polls of the British people suggest they'd like to see the Duke and Duchess of Sussex lose their HRH titles and funding from the Duchy of Cornwall, cutting the Sussexes off entirely is impossible, and the Royal Family knows it. 

It's impossible because Harry is vulnerable and could end up in a gutter - quite literally - without the support of his family. 

(As the Prince William character says of his family on the TV comedy series The Windsors, "These people are like budgies. Let them out of their cage and they'll be eaten by the first animal they see.") 

And it's impossible because social media makes it impossible to control information that might be released about the Royal Family by Duchess Meghan. 

True information, false information, it doesn't matter.

Meg can just make it up, release it on social media, and someone will believe it. 

Since the bananas

Social media has been a key player during Meghan Markle's two-and-a-half years of acknowledged connection to the Royal Family.

She first hinted at her relationship with prince Harry with an Instagram photo of two bananas cuddling; when she closed her lifestyle blog The Tig six months later, it was seen as a sign that the relationship was getting serious. After the engagement, Meghan closed her Instagram and Twitter accounts, something her supporters later described as the former actress being "muted" and "losing her voice."

In the run-up to the May 2018 marriage, social media in the form of the Daily Mail comments was the first sign that the British public was not entirely behind Harry's choice of bride. 

Meg "clapped back" with a team of PR posters paid to defend her on the DM comment boards, along with some vicioius Twitter bots and perhaps some pseudonymous Twitter accounts of her own. She also seems to be the person behind anonymous messages to the notorious anti-Meghan Tumblr blogger Skippy.  (A few anti-Meghan bloggers were doxxed, although Skippy was not one of them.) 

Meanwhile, the Meghan's Mirror Instagram and Twitter offered lightning-quick information on where to buy whatever Meghan was wearing that day. So quick, as a matter of fact, that they must have had advance notice of what would be worn, likely by someone who would receive an affiliate fee. 

Very confident in her abilities

Ultimately, Meg was allowed to start an official Instagram account again, the much-derided @SussexRoyal, which has been used to trumpet the Sussexes' achievements and offer lukewarm birthday greetings to members of the Cambridge family. 

Meg feels confident in her social media abilities, so confident she apparently writes much of the @SussexRoyal text herself without the benefit of a copyeditor. 

She also appears to enjoy do-it-yourself Photoshop, as displayed on the Sussexes' bizarre last-minute Christmas card.

Why is is this important?

Because social media is Meghan's insurance policy for the future. 

Deference to the Royal Family

When Edward VIII, then Prince of Wales, met Wallis Simpson in 1931 and they became lovers,  the British public knew nothing about it. 

Foreign newspapers wrote freely about the developing romance between the prince and the then-married American socialite, and Brits abroad delighted in cutting out clips and mailing them to family back home, but British newspapers did not report on the situation out of deference to the Royal Family.

US newspapers arriving in London had articles about the situation removed with scissors. In the case of Time Magazine, pages were ripped out. 

The public only learned of the nascent constitutional crisis involving the not-yet-coronated King in 1936, when a local Bishop mentioned it in a sermon. After that, the gloves were off. 

No photos of Royal children

The British media still shows some deference to the Royals today, such as the de-facto ban on publishing candid images of the Royal children, whether they are taken by paparazzi or the public. 

Various older Royals are also rumored from time to time to be having extramarital affairs, but this is also kept out of the papers unless some event forces the question, such as the theft of then-married Princess Anne's letters to her lover Tim Lawrence. 

(Super-injunctions also help enforce this deference, the "articles removed with scissors" of the 21st century.)

But social media shows no deference. Anyone can write anything, and it's up to the public to decide whether or not the statements are credible. 

Credibility and rumor

The rumor of an affair between William and Rose Hanbury was invented by a blogger in Utah who has never met anyone from the Royal Family and was inspired by photos she had seen in the Daily Mail; they were given additional weight by a Soho House habitué and Meghan pal named Giles Coren who said "everyone knows" about the affair. (Coren, ironically, was recently bullied off Twitter after making a distasteful joke about a gay journalist.)

But "a lie gets halfway around the world before truth puts on its boots," as Churchill once said. 

Some members of the public still believe the thin gruel of the Rose rumors (Enty lawyer at CDAN is one of them). Certainly Meg's fans enjoy adding rose emoji's to Tweets taunting Duchess Kate. 

How much more power would such a rumor have if it came from the Duchess of Sussex?

What she could say

Rumors of an affair are one thing, but the Duchess of Sussex could also cause havoc with innumerable other types of accusations - and they don't even have to be true. 

Creating quotes or otherwise suggesting that members of the Royal Family are racist, sexist, or homophobic is an obvious tactic, and given Meg's hatred of the Cambridges, they would be her number-one target. How delicious to damage the heir to the throne by crediting him with some vicious statement that would always be believed by at least a few people. A little mud always sticks.

She might also Photoshop embarassing images and release them, or cast aspersions on the Cambridge children, and true or false, whatever she said would follow them for decades. 

Meg's a viper. She doesn't have to win, as long as other people lose. 

Social media makes it possible, and unfortunately makes it very easy. Some people will believe anything, particularly when they want to. 

They need something they can take away

This is why the Royals must always keep Meg onside, at least nominally. They need to have something they can take away - an ongoing income, a title - if she misbehaves. They cannot leave her with nothing, because they will then have no leverage over her.

The only other alternative, if I may be so bold as to say it, is to neutralize her. 

(Sensitive souls should look away now.) When I say "neutralize", Ari Behn, Andrew Burkle, and Jeffrey Epstein come to mind. 

Controlling information about herself

Ironically, despite the growing power of social media, Meg seems obsessed with controlling what the traditional media say about her.

Her lawsuit against the Daily Mail is ongoing, as is Harry's lawsuit against some newspapers involved in an ancient phone-hacking scandal. The Duchess has long worked with People Magazine to promote her side of the story. 

And on their personal website, the Sussexes say they would like to remove themselves from the Royal Rota of traditional-media reporters in favor of "grassroots media organizations and young, up-and-coming journalists." 

In other words, small-potatoes types who will be so flattered to meet us that they'll write what we want. 

Hey Sussexes  - you can cut off the Royal Rota's access to your events, but you can't prohibit them from writing about you. And if you don't have anything to trade, they're likely to be harsh. 

Traditionally Royal reporters temper their stories in order to maintain access. If you've already removed access, why should they bother? 

The Gayle King interview

There's been some suggestion that the Sussexes are planning an interview with Gayle King, who has been responsible for two previous (low-rated) specials on the pair. 

Are the Royals worried about this? A little, perhaps, but Gayle King is an establishment journalist and a somewhat responsible gatekeeper. She'll let Meg say, "I never really felt welcome in Britain" and suggest that Meg is unpopular because she is (a little bit) Black. 

But she won't let Meg go full-throttle. She won't let Meg say crazy, damaging, or demented things about Princess Charlotte or Prince Louis.

Social media will. Let go from the Royal Family, Meg will waste no time re-establishing her accounts (there are suggestions that the "Meghan-ish" accounts popping up means she already has) and becoming an ongoing thorn in the side of the Royals at a vulnerable time, during the transition from a beloved monarch to a plummy and unpopular successor. 

The Royals will pay her off, or they will pick her off. We'll see which.


Comments

Something strange happened here - I went for a walk & could find my place when I returned - my latest post(s) seem to have gone

Thank you whoever gave me the link to BBC News 24 Papers last night. I checked and need to make a correction.

It was the other woman, not LF-W, who made the comment about MM's ethnicity. She actually said she was either the descendant of `an enslaved African' or `enslaved Africans'. I really can't be bothered to look it up again but that's the gist of it.

The thrust of their argument was that this was the cause of her being `frozen out ' by the RF.

No, I'd say they were using the `Grey Rock' technique, the recommended way of dealing with a narcissist when No Contact is not possible. In neither case are these used to punish the offender. Rather, it is to protect the target/victim/prey from further psychological damage by the narcissist/predator.

Of course, IMO, this isn't ordinary domestic narcissism; it's weaponised narcissism being used in political power play, by vindictive globalist kleptocrats. MM is their avenging angel or punishing devil, depending on one's viewpoint, to bring down a nation of obstinate, racist, Little Britishers who have raised two fingers to a superior, liberal, ubermensch elite by stubbornly insisting on going their independent way, despite being repeatedly told, by kindly Americans, what's good for them.

God Save the Queen and her Heirs
Fedde said…
Ava C
From all reports about the summit meeting tomorrow, it looks as if it will be, for Harry, a choice of:

Hard Megsxit - basically go it alone, and by the way here is all the evidence from HMRC (the UK IRS) showing you how much tax you'll pay. This will horrify tightwad Harry.

Soft Megsxit - divided time between their activities and royal duties, described as full active royal duties or variations of that. This would mean they'd continue to be controlled while they have their royal hats on. With all that entails. Everything Meghan abhors.

Meghan would find it nearly impossible to accept the soft version. If so, the BRF could effectively evict them with minimal criticism, as the soft version they offered was entirely reasonable.

The fly in this ointment is the human side. Are HMTQ and Prince Charles strong enough to harden their hearts and do what's necessary if, as expected, Meghan rejects even the merest vestiges of royal control?

I say 'control' but that's her word. We would call it loyalty, professional behaviour, obligations to the country that feeds and clothes her, necessary co-ordination of the large, complicated institution of monarchy ... I could go on and on, using all the words and concepts Meghan has never tried to understand.

January 12, 2020 at 4:03 PM

If the BRF don't see that putting conditions/constraints on an agreement with H&M and allow them to keep their funding and/or RPOs and with or without doing actual royal duties will never work, they really are foolish. And I'd hope a republic would follow.

Below a short list of reasons in no particular order of why there should be no expectation of H&M to adhere to any rules or conditions as part of the royal deal:

1. MM has been merching pretty much since she had her claws firmly into Harry
2. H&M have done a very lousy job of representing QEII/the crown in their duties since their wedding. Right now I can't even think of one engagement that was up to standards (appearances, speeches, no word salads, longer than an hour, attentive and polite behavior, etc) and they didn't ruin it with actions afterwards like their "documentary". But let's say there were a handful that went off without a hitch. A handful of engagement in the 600 days since their wedding.
3. H&M have clearly been working against other senior royals, even if only to leak private information or spread gossip. Also, let's not forget upstaging Eugenie's wedding with the "pregnancy" & pulling out of PC's documentary to do their own.
4. MM was involved in getting folks doxxed
5. H&M presented their alleged offspring to a foreign dignitary in a foreign country (another continent even) rather than the British public.
6. One of the very few times H&M actually looked presentable (meeting with Tutu) was to MERCH Archie's outfit (and possible their own?) with Hennes & Mauritz.

There are a lot more reasons but these were off the top of my head and I tried to show a few different subjects. Oh and all of the above were done while they were official, "full time" (as full time they ever were) senior royals in official capacity. Anyone who thinks they'll behave differently as non-sentior royals needs their head examined.

Jen said…
@Alice... sadly, it seems that we are moving towards a society full of people that cares more about themselves than others. While reading through a lot of the comments on different publications (in US, UK and CA), those who are supportive of this duo keep referencing that they need to live their life, and make themselves happy and do what makes them happy Etc.

Well I understand that we have to live our best life, and we have to do what makes us happy, we should not be doing that at the expense of others. I am just slightly older than this Duo, and this is not how I was taught. I was not taught to be selfish, and only worry about myself. I just can't fathom this mentality.
Fedde said…
Oh and I forgot to add the most important thing to my post above:

Are HMTQ and Prince Charles strong enough to harden their hearts and do what's necessary if, as expected, Meghan rejects even the merest vestiges of royal control?

Honestly, if they can't do what's necessary, then what's the point of having them? This, along with the PA debacle, is pretty much the only kind of difficult decision they will ever have to make in their very priviliged lives. And, truthfully, both the PA and H&M situations were entirely avoidable if they had their (royal) house in order.
Fedde said…
Louise
For the posters who were questioning how Archie could have stayed behind in Canada without the Queen's knowledge since the RPOs come from her, I do recall reading (but can't find the link) that Canadian RCMP were also offering protection while the Smirkles were in Canada.

Perhaps he was left behind with RCMP protection. I do believe strongly that Prime Minister Trudeau has been in on the plans to decamp full time to Canada since the time that he Tweeted : "You're among friends and always welcome here". Trudeau himself could have approved RCMP protection for Archie.

January 12, 2020 at 4:32 PM

If that is the case and none of the RPO's could be bothered to inform QEII they were leaving without Archie, they should all be fired.
The BRF should really step up and triple their security and pay for it fully. Because they just love them so much! Here's male and female RPO -- you'll NEVER be alone! Not to go to the grocery store, not to the IVF clinic, not to your dealer's house, nowhere! Because we lurve you.
henmoll said…
Hi everyone, Another lurker here. You should all read the Carole Malone article in today's Daily Express where she calls MM an "entitled little madam" and more interestingly, refers to "the lies and secrecy " surrounding the birth of Archie. I had never bought into the pillow pregnancy but I was always open to the idea of them using a surrogate, primarily because of her age. Anyhow, it seems Carole Malone knows something we don't ! I just thought it was an interesting article, especially as the Express is so pro monarchy. I was very surprised that they would publish an article like this.
Humor Me said…
From this morning's DM:
ITV presenter and Sussex confidante Tom Bradby said the couple could give a 'no-holds-barred' interview that could further damage the Royal Family. Courtiers fear Meghan could brand the household racist...

I hope the "Red Queen" emerges from HMTQ and she yells "Off with their heads!" if this threat emerges. Harry would not do this to his family - Megs would.

Animal Lover said…
@Elle
My guess is that most Americans don't understand that Rach & H want to leave to be independent except for the money. There needs to be time for that to sink in. I've read Rach & H are worth about $30 million -- that's generally considered to be a good, solid step towards "financial independence", and yet, they want Daddy to keep paying the bills? Let that sink in with Americans. And why do Americans matter? Social media. So yes, articles like this in the mainstream here, and then everyone, not just the British, will be PO
Agree with this. Many Americans are not aware the big issue is the ability to capitalize on the Royal connections and just see this as young lovers wanting to be free or feel that racism is the issue.
I"m surprised how many NY Times readers support this narrative. As many may be Bernie Sanders supporters and would find the merchandising aspect appalling in others.
@Frenchie, ‘I don't think Tom is still a close friend of William now...’

That’s why I said he (Tom) was toast to the ones that matter now. ;o)
SwampWoman said…
AVerySunshinyDay said: The BRF should really step up and triple their security and pay for it fully. Because they just love them so much! Here's male and female RPO -- you'll NEVER be alone! Not to go to the grocery store, not to the IVF clinic, not to your dealer's house, nowhere! Because we lurve you.

I had no idea you were so diabolical. Clearly there are a lot of us here with no mercy.

I disagree with the RF paying for the security, though. They should deduct it from their allowance. Heck, they may end up owing the RF.
I've been off the comments section for quite a while now but this potboiler is making come of the shadows... So well Hi again nutties! Anyone read the full Tom Bradby article yet? Some of his points are noteworthy.

1. The obvious threat that they could do a tell-all that would be damaging to.the monrqchy and that is the ace they have up their sleeve.

2. He says that senior royals, except HM and PP, were jealous and unfriendly towards. That made their lives miserable. This implies Charles, Cam, Wills and Kate.

3. He mentions that wills tried to help them but it didn't do any good. So that means Chaz, Cam or Kate could be the ones who have been jealous of the Sussexes and plotting their ouster. Is it just me or is he implying it could be Kate who is jealous and masterminded this whole thing?

4. He says towards the end that the only good that has possibly come from this is that wills and Chaz are finally working together for maybe the first time in their lives and that Harry possibly finds some solace in that. That's trying to paint Harry in a very saintly light. Lol, as if!

5. The possible threat of a tell all is so great that the royals are considering giving them everything on a platter. Hmmm... suspicious of!

Also to be noted, Chaz won't be there for the big meeting since he had to go to Oman. But is it possible that Kate might be there??
Princess Mrs. B said…
I hope that the Queen doesn't cave to their demands and calls their bluff on the no-holds-barred interview. Apparently MM is threatening to accuse the RF of sexism and racism. What specific instances can she give to substantiate her claims? I predict such an interview would not help her case any more than the SA one did. To me, she came across as ungrateful, petty, and self-absorbed.
IEschew said…
[reading backwards so in reverse order]

@Alice France, not just the RF but any family. Meghan showed us all exactly who she was when she ghosted her father. Why her treatment of the elders in the RF shocks anyone is beyond me. Charles’ “tungsten” nickname was not for nothing.

@Teeymma, totally agree Meghan is no black person’s representative, just like she is the worst possible ambassador for feminism. Meghan reps for Meghan and no one else. Again, she showed us who she was before the marriage. Stupid all of us for hoping she was otherwise, but it does show that humans in general are hopeful.

@Fedde, I think Meghan’s efforts to usurp Bea’s news backfired. I for one grow more eager by the day for good news of the York sisters.

@Scandi Saanskrit, re:the most racist person in this mess is markle herself, I think I can subscribe to this, not that you need me lol, because part of her overall hypocrisy is that she wants to capitalize on a perceived (by her) weakness when it suits, and otherwise live a lifestyle that denies it. Again, with her behavior she showed us who she was!

I maintain my position that the RF’s best way out is to allow reputable media to reveal all about Meghan’s fraud. They have to steel themselves for a short-lived blowback (and see below for a demonstrable defense), but once it’s all exposed and verified, Meghan is neutralized and the marriage can be annulled due to fraud.

The sticky wickets, of course, being (1) Harry, and I’m sure that is why he has been convinced to remain in the UK and Meghan was “permitted” to “flee back to Canada”—if Harry was not already on board and anxious to shed the burden of this toxic union; and (2) the mysterious Archie, and I agree with everyone’s questions about him. I still wonder—is this baby, which I believe exists because how else could the Queen recognize welcoming a new baby in her speech, actually in the custody of the RF (see rumors about the Wessexes)?

Which leads me to this perhaps crazy conclusion: Will Archie and Edo’s son be analogous and cared for in a future slim and trim monarchy? That right there is an organic way for the BRF to demonstrate its modernization and inclusivity as a family in the face of whatever else Meghan Markle tries to throw at it.

Get rid of her. Whatever Charles and courtiers thought about her being necessary in a modernized monarchy, they were wrong. Admit errors of judgment, take care of Harry and Archie, and move forward. Show that 2-bit starlet what woke and fearless really look like.
punkinseed said…
@henmoll, Yes. A good article, but where do you see that Malone seems to know something we don't?
I had to look up the word, "ligger" as I'd never heard it before. It does define them doesn't it.
NeutralObserver said…
This is a bit of a hit-and-run comment, because I haven't had time to read all the comments, but I wonder what all the reports of Harry's 'fragility' & possible cray-crayness are in aid of. Who benefits from them, the rest of the RF, or the Harkles? It could feed the 'dysfunctional & racist royal family drives prince & spouse to quit' narrative that's being put out in outlets like the NYTimes & the Guardian.

Are there any laws or rules about removing someone from the succession if he or she is incapacitated? (Which would move Archie, whoever he is, up in the succession, I guess.) Here in the US there was early talk of removing Trump from the presidency under the 25th Amendment because he was a nutter. Didn't go anywhere, largely because his party controlled both houses of Congress at the time, I suppose.
Mischief Girl said…
"Stop treating this pathetic duo like they have the stature they’ve got in their own mind." As well as, your comment you cannot give in to blackmailers because their demands will never end.

Agree completely!!

$mirks isn't going to be happy until the BRF bows down to her and says loudly, publicly, and across all social media "You are our saving grace and you are the most important person in our family".

$mirks wants to go scorched earth with them (keep our titles, keep the money from the Duchy, be able to merch to their hearts content, not do any of the grunt work but show up to look pretty for the Trooping of the Color and any balcony appearances), so the BRF needs to go scorched earth right back at them.

As a very wise person (sorry, I can't remember who) said 300 or so posts ago, "Tough love is still love".

The BRF has to be willing to lose Harry, because they can't save him. He has to save himself. They've been trying to protect him for years, and this self-serving, petulant man-child with the domineering wife is the result.

This common grifter cannot be allowed to bring the monarchy to its knees!
Ava C said…
@NeutalObserver I'm wondering if all the stuff about Harry's mental fragility is to butter up UK taxpayers before caving in to H&M's demands, whether wholly or partially. However the longer this goes on, the less the public will care about Harry's mental state. As far as I can see, they (we!) couldn't give AFF.

@Fedde I agree with you. If they took soft Megsxit they'd be as hopeless and damaging at royal duties as they were before. Thankfully I don't think they will take it, or if they do because they can't afford to do otherwise, they'll crash and burn in short order. Then they can be finished off. If the BRF fail to follow through, they are no longer fit for purpose.
Mischief Girl said…
Credit where credit is due-- the first paragraph in my post above is from @Hikari.
Ava C said…
I've just remembered William's determinedly swift exit from the remembrance service at the Cenotaph in November. He couldn't get away from his brother quick enough. If they appease Harry tomorrow it will be over William's dead body.
Nutty Flavor said…
Hi all! Happy Sunday.

Just want to add a (belated) comment that when William talks "to a friend" who talks to the Times, it is almost certainly William himself, who wants to get his side of the story out without the impact of granting an on-the-record exclusive interview.

This tactic is used extensively in the celebrity press, and was also used by William's mother Diana.

---------

@WildBoar, I haven't deleted any comments by you.
Nutty Flavor said…
Welcome back, @Alice.

Interesting idea that the Harkles might try to pin all the discord on Kate. She's a high-value target, since she's been portrayed in the media as the person who is holding the entire family together at this point.

Meghan seems to really hate her. Kate does have the husband who really matters and the kids who really matter.
Nutty Flavor said…
@Ieschew, good point about the York sisters. Has the coverage saying that the Harkle departure will leave Will and Kate with too much to do mentioned Beatrice and Eugenie? They're the obvious solution to the problem. They can cut a ribbon with the best of them.
Btw, my husband tells me that Prof.John Curtice (Politics, Glasgow Univ.) mentioned on TV this morning that the Press has missed the clue that the dogs had been `shipped to Canada - apparently in early November, my husband thought.

Does anyone know how the prof. might have picked up on that?
Ava C said…
@Nutty re: @Alice - I hope H&M do try to pin the discord on Kate. She's the closest thing to a saint there is in all this mess (slightly tongue-in-cheek remark but it's all relative). Following this tactic would do them even more harm. Fingers crossed.
I don't see how H&M can take soft-megxit, still having a foot in royal duties or whatever, and expect being welcomed, after she said, as it is claimed, she left Britain because it's "toxic"? How in the world would the British people accept seeing these two, especially her, representing the HMTQ at events after that comment? I can't imagine they'd be too pleased that the very person insulting them just waltzed onto BP balcony during TOC or Rememberance Day, or... at a beloved grandparent's funeral (as we all know could be much sooner than later). Hopefully this is pointed out to these ingrates tomorrow.

The media narrative in the past 48hours, along with the Obama's and Oprah releasing statements that they have not been advising these two, is quickly devaluing their merching opportunities.

IEschew said…
@Nutty thanks, and I am beginning to think Archie and Edo’s son present an organic solution to the problem of how to appear progressive and inclusive in the face of whatever accusations Meghan (I hope alone and not as one of the Harkles) throws. I feel a little more optimistic today that this can resolve.
FrenchieLiv said…

@Ròn
It has been months since I am checking their IG account numbers.
For a quite long time, Kensington IG had between 400K and 500K followers more than Sussex IG. Since their released their statement, Sussex IG gained almost 500K.
MM seems to be obsessed by the idea of having more followers than her In Laws (=popularity)and she allegedly said that Sussex IG will pass Kensington IG by february.
https://blindgossip.com/bring-me-my-numbers/
Here we are….
I see 3 possible explanations:
a)People want to support them after their announcement.
b)People are curious, they want to have all the breaking news
c)they paid fake followers and they know it will be hard to tell if it is fake or real followers because of option a) et b) are highly possible.

@Eowyn I agree with you! I think there is no deal is possible with Rachel. She won’t/can’t stick to the rules. She is playing the BRF and this will continue to do so.
Therefore, as for the no-holds-barred interview, I expect that they will give with that kind of interview in any case because they can’t be trusted, they just want to have cash, being victimized, spread hatred against the Cambridge and “break the internet”.
Nutty Flavor said…
You know what I'd like to read about that I haven't seen yet?

A good article about what the people of the Commonwealth think of this situation, or at least the thought leaders in those countries think.

We've heard a bit about the Canadian reaction (including that uber-stupid piece in the New York Times earlier today, "Could Megxit be a Royal fairy tale for Canada? Many Canadians are giddy at the prospect that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle could be moving to Canada, injecting some razzle dazzle to the sprawling, bone-chillingly cold country.")

But nothing about what the African countries think, India and Pakistan think, people in the Caribbean countries think. Are they on Meg and Harry's side or do they back the Queen?
Jen said…
@wild Boar... to play Devil's Advocate, if you were going to be gone for at least two months would you leave your dogs at home or take them with you if you were able to? I'm not saying it's indication of anything or it may be an indication of something, I'm just saying that it's possible that because they knew they were going to be gone for at least six weeks, they took them with them.
Nutty Flavor said…
@Miller

I don't see how H&M can take soft-megxit, still having a foot in royal duties or whatever, and expect being welcomed, after she said, as it is claimed, she left Britain because it's "toxic"? How in the world would the British people accept seeing these two, especially her, representing the HMTQ at events after that comment?

Even before the big announcement, the Sussexes were being boo-ed at public engagements in the UK.
Jenx said…
The Instagram comments were overwhelmingly negative on her post-announcement post but the cut off mark where the scrubbing ended was clear. There were many that had not been deleted and then it was all love and adoration and chastising the haters.

As for the followers, I have no doubt they were purchased. https://www.macleans.ca/royalty/meghan-markles-twitter-bot-network-the-whole-thing-is-a-bit-insane/

I think she wants to do as little as possible for BRF, enough to maintain the cachet and the perks and funds, but be free to hold court at the A-list parties and award shows and make $$$$ along the way. Some said that crazy expensive/ugly gown she wore in Morocco was what she had intended to wear to the Oscars.

I like the idea of divorce or annulment. Cut her loose because she is nothing without them but they will regroup and carry on. For the tarot folks ... my favourite reader, Tarot by Janine, has interesting perspectives and predicts that the divorce is already underway and Archie is not with her and safe.
Jenx said…
@nutty. The government in Canada is focused on the tradgedy of the many Canadians killed in the plane shot down in Tehran. Bigger fish ...
Fedde said…
IEschew
@Fedde, I think Meghan’s efforts to usurp Bea’s news backfired. I for one grow more eager by the day for good news of the York sisters.

But if the BRF give H&M any money (one-time or continued funding) then any news about Beatrice's wedding involving taxpayer's money, even if "just" for security since all the senior royals (and hopefully for Bea, her grandmother and grandfather) will be present, will not go down well.


NeutralObserver
(...)

Are there any laws or rules about removing someone from the succession if he or she is incapacitated? (Which would move Archie, whoever he is, up in the succession, I guess.) Here in the US there was early talk of removing Trump from the presidency under the 25th Amendment because he was a nutter. Didn't go anywhere, largely because his party controlled both houses of Congress at the time, I suppose.

January 12, 2020 at 5:16 PM

One thing I've always wondered if any relinquishing of the right to the throne also affects one's offspring? For some European monarchies this is the case, but I have no idea about the BRF. I've googled it in the past but couldn't find a definitive answer. And with relinquishing I don't mean abdication (monarch stepping down), but if say Charles relinquishes his claim then would it affect William and Harry and their children? Or if Harry does then would it affect Archie's? It would be interesting to know...

Ava C
@Fedde I agree with you. If they took soft Megsxit they'd be as hopeless and damaging at royal duties as they were before. Thankfully I don't think they will take it, or if they do because they can't afford to do otherwise, they'll crash and burn in short order. Then they can be finished off. If the BRF fail to follow through, they are no longer fit for purpose.
January 12, 2020 at 5:28 PM

I hope the only reason they've even offered a soft Megxit is for appearances and knowing H&M would never agree to it (since they've allegedly discussed some of it prior to their announcement) because I honestly think it's rather weak of QEII. A hard Megxit is the only thing they deserve since the Tower or "off with their heads!" aren't options anymore these days.
Unknown said…
@Nutty Despite the awful history, as far as I know, the South Asians I know are all Anglophiles. Bollywood gossip sites I frequent where a lot of Pakistanis and Indians shoot the breeze are very pro-Kate and pro-Wills. They were popular before their Indian and Pakistan tours and are even more popular now. What I have seen, they are very anti-Meg. Her treatment of her father is unthinkable in South Asian culture. Compared to Kate’s conservative goody-too-shoes image, Meg’s sexy and woke image is not palatable in South Asian culture. Harry is no better with his Vegas trip, Nazi costume, and his “Paki” comment.
Fairy Crocodile said…
Dan Wooton says they will get everything they want because they now openly threaten to accuse the royal family of racism.

It is also made clear in the Times that including Charlotte and Louis future into discussion was HazMeg idea, not the Queen's.

I think we are witnessing the early stages of events that will result in the fall of the RF as we knew it. It may survive but will be a lame duck.
" Blogger Rainy Day said...

Now she won’t be joining the call on Monday because of the time difference? If she claims it’s because it’s Archie’s feed time I’m really going to spew. How did they think they were going to jaunt back and forth between NA and the UK if they couldn’t figure out what time it was?"

Sad, but funny. Point on.
Jen said…
So Dan Wooten is reporting on blackmail and extrotion and doesn't call it for what it is?

All of these reporters need to just be quiet, I know it goes against everything because its all about the money, but really none of them knows anything that's really going on.

I'm still going to wait and see what becomes official.
Fedde said…
Jen
@wild Boar... to play Devil's Advocate, if you were going to be gone for at least two months would you leave your dogs at home or take them with you if you were able to? I'm not saying it's indication of anything or it may be an indication of something, I'm just saying that it's possible that because they knew they were going to be gone for at least six weeks, they took them with them.
January 12, 2020 at 5:51 PM

To be fair, MM did leave one of her dogs behind in Canada when moving to the UK, so it's hard to tell with her. I also noted the two dogs mentioned were labradors (IIRC), nothing about Guy the dog who was rumored to have been run over at Palace grounds, breaking both legs and having to put down - but was denied by MM or her mouthpieces, I don't recall.


Fairy Crocodile
Dan Wooton says they will get everything they want because they now openly threaten to accuse the royal family of racism.

It is also made clear in the Times that including Charlotte and Louis future into discussion was HazMeg idea, not the Queen's.

I think we are witnessing the early stages of events that will result in the fall of the RF as we knew it. It may survive but will be a lame duck.

January 12, 2020 at 6:05 PM


Interesting if true! I wonder if they thought using Charlotte and Louis would help win their argument but was actually intended to ensure H&M themselves wouldn't get overshadowed by W&K's kids.
Ava C said…
I know some of you are dismissive about the idea of the York sisters replacing H&M on the BRF roster, but I think this would work. They have absolutely nothing to do with what their father gets up to. Or their mother. They come across very well indeed, whenever I see them in the public eye (fashion faux pas excepted).

I totally changed my mind about the sisters when I saw the documentary I think was for the Queen's 90th birthday. Beatrice showing the camera crew the little house given to the Queen when she was a small child. Beatrice was respectful, knowledgeable and warm. She cared about royal history. Exactly what Meghan so conspicuously lacks, and what constantly adds salt to the wound while she takes our money.

As for Eugenie, her wedding was my favourite royal event ever, and I remember Prince Charles' investiture in 1969, as a child in Wales, given a commemorative mug as we all were. I'd be happy to see any number of events with Eugenie and Jack. They look to be a truly happy couple, especially compared to H&M with all the disturbing clutching and back-stroking.

I know some of you will strongly disagree with me, but I stand by my opinion. The sisters feel like a living link to royal history. They even look Hanoverian, in the good sense not the bad. I know they're not perfect, but who is? I think they're the best alternative we have when the royal family is becoming just too small for their commitments, and they're a hell of a lot better than the couple they would be replacing.

Prince Charles would just have to grin and bear it. If the monarchy is to be slimmed down to the extent that they cease many of their current patronages, then they could no longer continue to live as grandly as they do. Modern European royalty don't expect to live on the scale Prince Charles does. It's not just H&M who would have to make sacrifices.
poppycock said…
miller langhorne said...
I don't see how H&M can take soft-megxit, still having a foot in royal duties or whatever, and expect being welcomed, after she said, as it is claimed, she left Britain because it's "toxic"? How in the world would the British people accept seeing these two, especially her, representing the HMTQ at events after that comment? I can't imagine they'd be too pleased that the very person insulting them just waltzed onto BP balcony during TOC or Rememberance Day, or... at a beloved grandparent's funeral (as we all know could be much sooner than later). Hopefully this is pointed out to these ingrates tomorrow.

Exactly. British public was far from supportive when they came out with their exit extortion, and now the mood has been shifted even further into disgust. H & M have nothing to return to in Britain. If the BRF shows weakness, they're finished. Charles in particular can forget of ever becoming king.

I've said it before, they should stall the negotiations and let the press do most of the dirty work of exposing all the filth on Meghan till she self-combusts. There's no redemption for either of them anyway, so let them burn.
Jenx said…
I am not seeing much giddiness about the shamglam couple being in Canada because most don't care and those who do comment seem wary about the potential costs for housing and protecting the Royal refugees. A recent article that circulated stating 60% of Canadians are in favour of H$M coming here received an unusually high amount of reaction, mostly derision - about H$M and the ridiculous "poll".
Ava C said…
@Fedde, yes, I think soft Megsxit is just for appearances. Puts the ball in H&M's court, with entirely reasonable conditions. When refused by H&M it would then constantly undermine their subsequent victimhood. It would be the gift that keeps on giving.
Nutty Flavor said…
@Charade

Despite the awful history, as far as I know, the South Asians I know are all Anglophiles. Bollywood gossip sites I frequent where a lot of Pakistanis and Indians shoot the breeze are very pro-Kate and pro-Wills. They were popular before their Indian and Pakistan tours and are even more popular now. What I have seen, they are very anti-Meg. Her treatment of her father is unthinkable in South Asian culture. Compared to Kate’s conservative goody-too-shoes image, Meg’s sexy and woke image is not palatable in South Asian culture.

From my limited knowledge of the various African cultures, I would imagine the same would be true of the African Commonwealth nations. Your family is everything in Africa. To treat your elders with disrespect and then simply walk away from the family, or threaten to - it just isn't done.

The Sussexes' recent actions, along with Meghan's past, would seem to make them very awkward Commonwealth ambassadors going forward.
Humor Me said…
I want to see the Kraken released.
Ava C said…
Don't you all think it's now reached the point where Harry is unable to do royal events in the UK unless he's in a protected environment, as he would be on Thursday in Buckingham Palace? If that event was in a football stadium or public hall, he simply couldn't do it. The risk of being loudly heckled and booed would be too great.

So how can they reach a compromise? Surely he and his wife are effectively out. As of now. Prince Andrew had to visit the church in Sandringham early Christmas Day morning due to the same risk for the later service. The rest of the time he's hidden away. H&M's failures are on a lesser scale, but it's the same risk. The BRF exists by popular consent. That's a fragile edifice.
Ava C said…
Telegraph today:

***** The Queen attended church at Sandringham on Sunday, arriving by car dressed in a camel coloured coat and hat.

Members of the public gathering near St Mary Magdalene Church said they felt sorry for the Queen, with some saying that Harry and Meghan should not receive any more taxpayers' money.

Jean Acton, 70, from Fakenham, described the crisis as a "slap in the face" for the Queen.

"I feel desperately sorry for her. It must be horrible. For any parent. Let alone if you're a royal or not," she said.

Members of the public clapped as the Queen left the church after the service. She waved from her car as it pulled away. *****

I live not far from Norfolk and am familiar with the Sandringham area. For those of you overseas, it's a very traditional part of the country. Despite rich incomers, there are still strong communities with the same family values of respecting and supporting your elders that Nutty mentioned for other parts of the Commonwealth. If the Queen saw people applauding her, she'll know what that means. They wouldn't be clapping for H&M to have their cake and eat it.
Hikari said…
@Jen re. Bringing the dogs to Canada for the six week family vacation

Unless Meg and H Went out and collected two replacement dogs that resembled the abandoned Bogart and the mysteriously deceased guy the beagle, My money is on there being no dogs with the Suxxits in Canada. Otherwise it would’ve been lovely to see them in the heartwarming Lee genuine family Christmas photo we received, wouldn’t it? Meg’s PR funds are running dry, else we would have seen at least a blurry shot of H romping w Archie and the doggos. Throwaway line about them Being spotted with two dogs was all she could afford. Narco attention span being what it is, She’s forgotten that she already told us she left Bogart with Cory, and that Guy met an unfortunate accident on the grounds of KP a month after the wedding. Unless she’s on such great terms with Cory that she swung by his house in Toronto to show off H and the Bebe And pick up her dog. Because husbands just love to meet the guy their wives were balling before them. Maybe Cory made them a lovely roast chicken lunch too.

Re Kate Being the mean girl mastermind behind Woo Ono’s cold reception...harhar. Yes, Kate hated her so much that she took Meg to Wimbledon twice with her and introduced her to her sister. That was certainly cold and unwelcoming, Along with letting her children be in megs wedding. Megs just mad because Kate didn’t throw her that baby shower Meg’s promised herself.

While what is going to be decided in these meetings will certainly impact Kate and her children going forward, I doubt very much she will be in on the meetings. HM and heirs only, Along with legal and logistical staff From the three Royal households. Sussex royal doesn’t have any viable staff left, regardless of the fiction, and that’s why they would never allow Megzy in the room. Convenient for her than that she is in North America.
Princess Mrs. B said…
@Ava C, I kind of like the York princesses, too. All of their lives they have had to deal with one scandal after another surrounding their parents, first Fergie and now Andrew. For not having great role models for parents, they have turned out quite well; aside from their criminal dress sense, of course. For those who say that they are lazy and take too many holidays, maybe they should be put to work. They can do the engagements such as supermarket openings that the senior royals don't really want to do. Someone will have to pick up the slack now that the Kents and the Gloucesters are well past retirement age. They would be suitable representatives of the Crown.
Louise said…
Nutty: The New York Times article about Canadians being giddy at the prospect of local Royalty is ridiculous for the reasons that I outlined earlier on this thread.

The only thing that is becoming clearer is that Trudeau has been aware of this since at least December. As per the story in the DM today, those in diplomatic circles say that Trudeau and his wife Sophie were informed at least in December. Note that his wife, who has no standing in Canada (she is the wife of the Prime Minister and not the first lady as in the USA) was informed, proving as I have been saying since December that when Trudeau tweeted "you are among friends", he meant that literally, as his wife and Markle are friends through Jessica Mulroney.

As well, this article from the National Post Dec 9 now makes more sense:

https://nationalpost.com/news/politics/after-years-of-mixed-messages-trudeau-signals-hes-treating-the-crown-more-seriously
"After nearly three years of leaving the post vacant, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has appointed a new Canadian secretary to the Queen,"

"The secretary serves as the primary link between the federal cabinet and the Crown, providing information and advice"


" other signals from Trudeau have raised questions about his own commitment to the traditions of the monarchy. He drew the attention of the British press when, after his government was first elected, he pulled down the portrait of the Queen that the Conservative government had installed at the headquarters of Canada’s foreign affairs department, replacing it with paintings by Canadian artists (which had also been the practice of past Liberal governments)."

So after sending out signals that Trudeau was trying to distance Canada from the Monarchy, he suddenly had a new interest in December 2019? What a coincidence.. NOT.
@avaC - you said it much better than me. (apologies I don't know how to do the italic thing) "Don't you all think it's now reached the point where Harry is unable to do royal events in the UK unless he's in a protected environment, as he would be on Thursday in Buckingham Palace? If that event was in a football stadium or public hall, he simply couldn't do it. The risk of being loudly heckled and booed would be too great."

No way can I see either of them do an open public event ever again. The very idea they blindsided and insulted a much loved and respected woman, HMTQ, who served the country so well and so long, is perhaps the most unforgivable thing ever. Even for the staunch anti-royalists, I would suspect, even they see how a 93yo granny was so poorly treated and so publicly at that.

Finally, how in the world could MM justify taking money from the very institution she accuses of being racist and sexist and unfriendly - doesn't that make her a hypocrite of the highest order? But then again, we all know she's a hypocrite.
SDJ said…
@lizzie said The quote from Vogue about MO was they talked "over a casual lunch of chicken tacos and my ever-burgeoning bump.." Clearly she *intended* casual readers to assume they had lunch.

Don't forget the Elle essay where she wrote: "When I gave a speech for International Women's Day, and Ban Ki-moon led the standing ovation"

A quick YouTube check to verify shows the entire audience SAT while politely clapping.


https://www.elle.com/uk/life-and-culture/elle-voices/articles/a32612/meghan-markle-fame-comes-responsibility/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zkb-zg4JCLk
Glow W said…
Good morning, Nutties!!

I’ve been thinking I’ll bet MM is about to tear her hair out in Canada as it seems PH was supposed to go back with her and now is delayed. I can’t decide if it was a deliberate tactic on her part or not. Was the plan to drop the bomb and both go sit in Canada? Did she run back to Canada as a threat to PH? Is the RF delaying in order to keep PH apart from her as long as possible?

Reporters said no one was at the house yesterday, so did she pack everyone up and go back to JM’s house in Toronto.

What does the nanny think of all of this???
Animal Lover said…
@Nutty,

My guess is that Africans, and South Asians have more pressing things to worry about.

Which begs the question does M see them as a potential market?
PaulaMP said…
Why do I feel like they have already split and all of these "meetings" are just to delay announcing it and/or justifying it later
none said…
Right @PaulaMP. Setting the stage.
Liver Bird said…
"Dan Wooton says they will get everything they want because they now openly threaten to accuse the royal family of racism."

I say the royal family should take a deep breath and let them go ahead and do it. They've been screaming 'racism' anytime anyone has dared to criticise Meghan for the past 2 years, so they've devalued the term beyond all recognition. And given recent polls in Britain - which at the end of the day is the only place that really counts - public opinion is very much in favour of them losing most of their royal priviliges.

The monarchy has survived the heir to the throne expressing his wish to be a tampon, the massive fallout over Diana's death and a hundred other scandals. They can survive a D list American actress playing the racism card.
none said…
@tatty there are more pressing concerns that where MM is and how she is doing. No one cares about her because she's not worth caring about. The Royal Family and British people, however are worthwhile concerns. The nanny's thoughts? LOL. nutties are smarter than that.
Fairy Crocodile said…
"Time to scatter stones and time to gather stones"

If the royal family is not fit to deal with the open and shameless blackmail by the third rate actress with dubious past then it's time to gather stones has arrived. The institution has outlived itself.

That is what I am telling myself when get upset about the way Harkles treat the monarchy. Impossible to respect the institution that fails to respect itself.
KnitWit said…
Seems taxes will be a key issue for frugal Harry. Paying millions in taxes from his inheritance may cause him to reconsider. Meg probably didn't consider "details" such as taxes when planning world domination. Billing them for Frogmore renovations would further their financial burden. This may be the best way to influence Harry - through his shrinking inheritance.

Wouldn't it be great if Meg chooses hard mexit and Harry soft mexit. Perhaps that would lead to a trial legal separation.

In England, can a number of family members force a psychiatric hold or substance abuse test/treatment? If Harry is locked up, Meg can do her interview alone. If it is anything like Andrew's interview, it could make her position more tenable.

I wonder if Harry knew Meg would launch their webpage. Terrible of her to not show for a meeting with the queen then launch that disaster claiming the queen wouldn't give Harry an audience.

Avoiding the queen and consort over the holidays ( possibly the last holiday together) and causing such stress and drama is unforgiveable. No number of social media bot posts can erase the shameful selfish actions of the dumb duo.

Tomorrow will be interesting.
Glow W said…
I love words, so I love the term woko ono or woke ono, but remember Lennon stayed with her until he died.

Also, I have a relative with mental illness (borderline, BPD, narc) and she is married to a vulnerable man with his own mental illnesses and their relationship is very super toxic. I never let my kids stay around them. I never went and visited them for fear of having to sleep at their house (rural, no hotels nearby). My relationship with her has broken down to the point where I haven’t spoken to her in a few years (police involved/trespassing) and we have all had to write letters to her on the advice of police with our signatures and dates (kept in a folder for LE) telling her no contact is demanded. I am frightened of his instability because I suspect he is mean to animals, so since he leaves us alone, we leave him alone and have not involved him with police, etc.

I say all of that because none of us expected them to be married more than 2-4 years. They have talked divorce numerous times (which everyone supports, even his side and they have BEGGEG him to divorce her).

They have been married 14 years now with no end in sight. It’s still toxic as hell. Now there are children.




Why do I say this, exasperated readers ask....

Because!!! Harry and Meghan both have the right to be mentally ill. They have the right to be married for as long as they decide between themselves. They have the right to be cringeworthy. They have the right to do anything that isn’t illegal.

Perhaps the RF will be able to lock them down through some stellar loophole about taxes, etc. Tomorrow for sure will be interesting.

Just because we see toxicity (and maybe they do too), I just want to throw this out there that this might very well go on for a looooooong time.

Prepare to be disappointed and rejoice if it goes down how you hope.


Nutty, I had a look around the internet and your place here is BY FAR the most level and intelligent discussion about this, so bravo on that. Kudos to you and thank you for having a place where all thoughts can be heard and expressed.



I’m also curious how many here (though it is off topic so maybe more rhetorical) are intuitive? I am INTJ.
Liver Bird said…
Serena Williams said she was not 'touching' the Harkle story when asked about it in Auckland. Elton John simply said he was 'surprised' to hear of their move, pushing back against the claim that he'd been told about it in advance.

The rats are deserting this sinking ship faster than you can say 'Sunshine Sachs'. That's the thing about transactional 'friendships' - they last only as long as there's something to be gained.
Hikari said…
Woko Ono that should read. My new favorite of Megsy’s monikers.

I have just had the uncustomary experience of being piled on by Meg Stans On another chat board, in a thread devoted to discussing The Crown... The TV show, not the real thing. I would’ve expected a bit more decorum and less ignorance From those viewers but it appears I was wrong. I was accused of being an American hater by one. I replied that no, just the American duchess really, and I’m American as Apple pie. No response. I flummoxed her with my use of multiclausal sentences I see why so many folks find the Internet a hostile place... The ignorance is appalling, Especially among Americans. Meg is being hailed as a heroine. Take the bleeding E off and they wouldn’t be wrong.

The BRF has to be prepared to take a hit in the short term on charges of racism and whatever else Meg thinks she’s got on them. They are already mired in the Epstein mess With Andrew, so if it’s more of same, that arrow is blunt. Plus she only implicates herself as well in criminal activity if she has insider information. Tom Bradby Had better be prepared to find a new job; even supposing a tell all bombshell interview with the Donkeybutt Duo doesn’t materialize, How much access to the other members of the royal family will he ever get going forward? Hopefully Williams training with M I6 has strengthened him in regards to terrorist negotiation… There is absolutely nothing under the sun including any kind of injunction the family cares to slap on Megan that will prevent her I’m spelling on them when she gets bored, and needs more fuel. They could give her everything she’s asking for now, and in a few weeks or months still be dealing with her “bombshell interview.” Because by that time she will have dreamed up 1 million other demands and reasons why they are so unfair and racist to her. Mega should be very scared of William and his M I6 contacts. Maybe she is and that’s why she fled to Canada, but they can still find her. I think the only secure and permanent solution to the Sussex problem starts with 00. They will leave no fingerprints, and it will look like a drug OD. Anything else would make a certain dutches into a glamorous martyr like Di. Can’t have that.
Glow W said…
@paula MP you mean Harry and Meghan have broken up with each other, or you mean the Sussex have broken up with the RF?
Liver Bird said…
"Because!!! Harry and Meghan both have the right to be mentally ill. They have the right to be married for as long as they decide between themselves. They have the right to be cringeworthy. They have the right to do anything that isn’t illegal."

They have the right to paint their faces lime green and dance around singing 'Guantanamera' outside Frog Cottage if they like. So long as the taxpayers aren't paying for it.

"Just because we see toxicity"

Who's the 'we'? I could have been sure that you were a huge defender of this pair until very recently.
IEschew said…
Here’s my favorite response re: Trudeau, and I wasn’t a Piers Morgan fan until Meghan (he was reverse Markled, just as I hope the York sisters will be!). Not a leg to stand on, IMHO, and thus another item to add to the growing list of hypocrisy in this sordid tale.

https://t.co/5U8iQPvYEL
hardyboys said…
Nutty as a canadian south asian: 2 points: we were brought up that our parents are everything. There is a very very low percentage of south asians in nursing homes bc we have cultural beliefs that the eldest son takes care of the aging parents and next of kin if there is no son.

Alot of canadians hate having a fashion model as a PM and consider him completely useless more like a celebrity than a politican. I wasnt too affected by the black face comment as his father opened up all the doors for immigrants to come to Canada as a self sponsor. I dont believe he is a racist at all but hes definitely a fashion model celebrity hound
Tea Cup said…
Dan Wooten's twitter:

My feeling is the Queen will give Harry and Meghan virtually everything they want. What choice does she have? The couple’s close pal Tom Bradby makes clear in Sunday Times that the alternative is them giving an interview accusing the monarchy of sexism and racism. Extraordinary!

Yep, I said pretty much the same. Elizabeth and Charles must go, useless and pathetic, a shoddy disgrace the both of them. They "monarchy" has lost my respect. I am disgusted with the whole show. My only sympathies lie with the Cambridges.
Anonymous said…
I work for one of the most esteemed professors in his field in the world. He was born in what is now Pakistan. His family fled during separation (as anyone with means did). His family was not rich but I would say comfortable. His opinion of the British Royal Family is not glowing to say the least. In fact he said to me on Friday, “Why am I getting new feeds about the royal family?” Because he doesn’t consider this marital/family tiff to be news. I take his point and am wondering myself why I am giving this two-bit grifter so much of my time and energy. For those who are interested, there is a sobering book about the creation of Pakistan under Mountbatten and the enormous ramifications it had. Let’s talk about racism! The name of the book is Shameful Flight by Wolpert, a distinguished scholar of Indian history who used to teach at the University of California, Los Angeles (I believe he is deceased.) I cried while reading that book because the aftermath of his and the Crown’s policies were nothing short of laying the groundwork for genocide. Mountbatten admitted that he screwed up.
SwampWoman said…
tatty said I’m also curious how many here (though it is off topic so maybe more rhetorical) are intuitive? I am INTJ.

I am pretty evenly divided between INTP and ENTP (I have tested as both, but the TP never changes). I am data driven. I will see a piece of data, examine it, make no conclusions other than an interesting piece of data to remember, move on. When I have 5 or 6 pieces of data pointing in the same direction, I look in that direction for more data.
Leela said…
Unknown “Lookin On” here - I have read stories of African princes fleecing little old ladies, but am still so surprised at seiing a British prince trying to fleece his own grandma.

On DM there was a comment about how the RF has “bent over backwards” to accommodate MM&H, and now she wants them to bend iver forwards too.
IEschew said…
Agree with both of you, PaulaMP and Liver Bird!

I note Serena finally had a win and donated the purse to Australian relief efforts—so she has both jumped ship and gotten on a new path (maybe it’s not only possible to reverse Markle but to reverse a Markle!), thank goodness.

@Tatty, I am intuitive if we accept the validity of the MBI (I don’t, but plenty of folks I respect do).

Hikari said…
@tatty

Thanks for your perspective on toxic relationships. You’re right that Harrys deep in the grips of one and what he is willing to tolerate short of a mental health commitment Is his business. He is after all, A grown ass man, at least according to the letter of the law and the number of birthdays he has celebrated. No matter what happens next week, or in the months to come, Harrys toxic relationship will forever define him.

John did stay with Woko until he died. At the age of 40, which is my personal bet As to how long Harry will last Cut off from his family. He’s not in a good place at all. We will never know, thanks to you in assassin‘s bullet, if John and Yoko would still be together 40 years on. But Woko in collusion with Hapless has fired a bullet into the heart of the British monarchy. Kind of ironic that the guy who shot John Lennon was seeking the attention of a celebrity, and thought she would marry him and live him for it. Meg wants gobs of celebrity love and to continue as one herself in exchange for firing on a 93 year old woman and all she stands for.


Glow W said…
@liver Bird as you know, I have supported them because I have supported Harry and she is his wife. I believe I have always said that. I have wanted them to succeed. I have wanted them to do good in the world. I have seen Harry’s magic come out when he is with children and I have hoped she could be a part of that.

I have expressed temperance of her— tolerance of things like her odd choices in clothing because I feel women shouldn’t tear down women. Why would I care the choices she makes in clothing? Plus, not all of it is bad. I applauded her not wearing stockings if not in the presence of the queen because I personally think their are torture devices.

I don’t mind her high heels, her V necks. I am not British; I am a US citizen. I am aware Brits see things differently because she represents the queen.

I have also said that I have been continually disappointed with them. Vogue issue.... great. Maybe TQ wasn’t listed because she said no. How do we know? But then the tacos with M Obama over her bump.... disappointing. Why mention the bump? Why make it sound like yu are eating tacos with Obama? Disappointing.

I have also long said she doesn’t listen to advisers, which is something everyone can see.

I have been disgusted with talks of wigs, bad skin, nose jobs, her square shape etc. (not necessarily here but all over). She is picked on in very mean ways, whether someone thinks she deserves it or not. Again I don’t like women tearing apart women based on their looks.

I have always been fine with criticism of her actions.... her factual actions. There has been so much gossip (again, not necessarily where but everywhere) and repeating of fallacies and I don’t like that either. (But it’s the internet so you can’t stop it).

So yes, I feel like I have been a level headed defender of them as a couple and of her against superficial nitpicking of her looks and repeating of gossip where there was enough information to suggest it was likely incorrect. Sometimes, the criticism of her looked unjust on certain topics,

To me, I have to separate the wheat from the chaff and I get bogged down in overload on hype which is why I tend to link articles so at least I can have a reference point and can at least in my mind follow the stories as written, knowing there might be hype and fallacy there as well.

It’s no secret I found this break away bomb shocking and I was not expecting it. Again, I’m still hung up on Diana’s son enough to want him to succeed, but now I’m unclear how I feel about this,

No one except her wanted to marry him. What does that say about him? That maybe he is no prize? Maybe she got more than she bargained for with him? Maybe she is having a hard time with his mood swings?

With my relatives mentioned above, sometimes she is acting up while he is level and sometimes it is reverse and the really bad stuff happens when they both are unlevel at the same time.

I honestly don’t know which of them or both is driving this. Yes, sometimes I feel toxicity here, but as I just said, I cannot discern if it is one or both of them.

My thoughts and feelings are very jumbled over this moving to canada thing because they are the ones in it and we only see the outside so god only knows what it’s like to be inside and a part of that institution. Maybe it is in Harry’s best interest to break away,

Maybe it’s the institution that is toxic.

I just don’t know.

Hikari said…
Typo correct “an assassin’s bullet”. Don’t know where “you” slipped in. Also “Love” Not live.
Anonymous said…
@ tatty. Of course they have the right to be mentally ill or mentally healthy or whatever. What they do NOT have the right to do is siphon off funds from their faux foundation to fund her penchant for tacky jewelry and designer shoes. Not does she, IMO, have the right to blackmail the BRF exposing their private lives to get what is the most advantageous settlement possible. That’s right. BLACKMAIL. It’s illegal. My only hope is that they put into the agreement that all funding stops if they divorce. That might keep poor Harry in that marriage a little longer, but it will give her pause. I think she needs him now but will jettison him as soon as she can. I do not feel her empire building will be successful because everything she touches turns to dross. She is incompetent. Yes, she will build up some sort of faux empire (but I even question that given the general response among the glitterati that she adores to their machinations) and it will fail, and she will start hunting for husband no. 3 or 4). Not even Victoria Beckham can keep her fashion line going without generous input from the Beckham family coffers (and I think her stuff is pretty smart). She will crash and burn, If you had a choice between choosing the BRF and their extended “reach” and choosing Meghan Markle, a two-bit grifter who can’t even photoshop a picture with any degree of expertise, I know which way I’d jump. Anyone and anything associated with her will be persona non grata. Also, even if she’s not guilty of criminal enterprise (which I doubt), She has proven herself repeatedly to have no moral center what so ever. And I don’t mean little white lies that we all tell. Even if she doesn’t commit any gross financial transgressions, She is a liar. She will never have my respect. I would light myself on fire because I bought anything even remotely associated with her. It’s beyond “toxic.”
none said…
"No one except her wanted to marry him. What does that say about him?"

MM married a Prince in the British Royal Family. Harry just happened to be that prince.

Says more about MM than Harry.
none said…
@Hikari Your posts are excellent.
harrythetwat said…
@Fairy Crocodile "Impossible to respect an institution that fails to respect itself." This!!!!

Prince William and Duchess Kate, if you ever lurk on this blog, please keep in mind what fairy crocodile just said. I beg you Wills, we rest our hopes on your able shoulders to do what is right. Go to the mattresses with the Narkles!! The people are behind. Don't give in to that sewer rat blackmailers. Fight! fight with everything you've got! Use every weapon in your arsenal.
Glow W said…
@wizardwench, yes I agree. In the end, I expect the queen sees what is truly happening here and that pic of her staring at Markle at the wedding is very hard to ignore.

Yes, I would choose the queen over Markle, if it came down to that.

I would hope TQ shrewdly comes up with something that protects Harry so if and when he bounces back with a couple of kids, he could bunker down (like Andrew right now). I doubt the RF would cut him off and make it so that he would never return or could never return.

I trust the RF has intelligent and shrewd advisors that will work out a plan for all. I hope it’s not just spin that it could be “the way forward” for all future spares. I hope she can turn a crisis into an opportunity.

Though all of this time, I have never been certain there would be a kingship by the time George got there, other than a glorified ambassador of England type of thing. I hope I am wrong, but I have worried about when Charles is anointed and the ceremony is about the divine right of kings how that is going to go over with today’s under 40 crowd.



CookieShark said…
What did they think HM would say? "Oh, OK. Thanks for drawing everything up for us. Looks good, you can start Monday."

I think MM's pathology is truly on display. Her father provided everything for her, and she allowed him to be trashed publicly and she ghosted him.

H&M have been treated very well by the RF. How can they do this to them?!?
Sandie said…
What we are seeing is Megsy bolting. Harry is her lapdog trying to get the best deal for her post-divorce, but he thinks he is saving his marriage (he is not).

As for how Harry and Meghan would be perceived in Commonwealth countries, and in particular Africa (much a repeat of what I said above):

1. Meghan is not classified or perceived as black in Africa. It is not about straightening her hair and so on. There may be very few exceptions (e.g. Xhosa people can be very light skinned so don't look black; Lindiwe Sisulu does not look black but is accepted as such without question because she has the political pedigree; Obama was accepted as black), but you are either 100% black or you are not called black. (South Africa tried using black for anyone not 100% white and Black for anyone 100% black during the Mandela years, but it did not stick.)

2. Ironically, any diva-like behaviour from her (arrogance, rudeness) would have her being called a racist.

3. Traditionally, African people honour their ancestors, no matter what they did. In the modern world, respect for elders is not the same as it used to be, but all cultures in Africa would not approve of how she treated her family. Press coverage of the BRF is not extensive and detailed, so many do not know of her history. Release the Kraken and get the details out there of how she treated her father and she would be met with definite disapproval if she tried to visit any African village (definite) and might be confronted by some tough questions when visiting any other community. People tend to be warm and welcoming, but the mood easily changes.

3. Investment is the number one thing Africans want (not hand-outs that get siphoned off into corrupt pockets) ... investment that will grow economies and provide jobs. The Harkles do not have the power to provide that. Donations to wildlife and conservation projects are great and Africans welcome such donations, but they do not create millions of jobs or increase GDP. Travelyst (note that it has gone nowhere and has been subsumed in the Meghan tantrums) is something that is already been done in Africa (i.e. ecotourism has been around for decades). Quite frankly, a lion or elephant is a better advertisement for ecotourism than Harry and Meghan.

4. Generally, Africans are admiring of, ridiculously so, immense wealth and privilege in black people, but not in whites.

Generally, the occasional tour would be seen as entertainment and Africans would be polite and welcoming, but I see the Harkles messing it up very quickly (saying the wrong thing, inappropriate display of wealth and privilege ...).

Your Majesty, Your Royal Highnesses, the couple are not suitable for any role in the BRF or the Commonwealth. Cut them loose with a generous personal donation of cash/property, let them have the freedom to live their lives as they wish, and make it quite clear that they do not represent the Crown, the British government or the Commonwealth in any official capacity.

Liver Bird said…
"Maybe it is in Harry’s best interest to break away"

But that's not what he's planning to do, is it? If he wanted to make a clean break - no titles, no money, no taxpayer funded security, no Frog Cottage - I think almost everyone would be on board. But that is not what he and his awful wife want to do.
Fairy Crocodile said…
@Tatty

Judging by your description of your unfortunate relations the biggest punishment for them was themselves.

Absolutely Harry and Meghan have a right to get crazy. They can do whatever they want in private. They deserve each other.

As long as Police is not charged over a million pounds every year to protect their sorry a**s between UK and wherever the majority doesn't give a fig.

The story dies if public doesn't have to pay for them.
SwampWoman said…
Hikari said...
Typo correct “an assassin’s bullet”. Don’t know where “you” slipped in. Also “Love” Not live.


KC Martin said that her phone (I'm assuming gender here, sorry) had to have the demon exorcised from it. I find that my portable device this morning has been possessed by an entity that doesn't do swear words. Perhaps KC's demon of substitutions took over your phone.
hardyboys said…
Hi wizard wench thanks for the info on that book. I'm going to google it tonight. The BRF destroyed India and took all their crown jewels. We believe there is luck associated with certain stones. Stealing a nation's sapphires rubies and diamonds comes with bad karma.
Jen: Fair point, it's just I'm not sure if the dogs, or even which dogs, are supposed to have gone from England or US to Canada. I don't know what the rabies rules are when it comes to transatlantic crossings - if you know, please tell. Is it easy to shuttle them back and forth?

Both M$H could easily be on a flight-path to self-destruction with whatever they use to keep them happy/thriving. Nevertheless, whatever happens, even if they die in their beds aged 110, it'll be the Royal Family's fault somehow, even if the death was not `under unexplained circumstances' as they say.

I did read what purported to be a quotation from Prince Philip a while ago, along the lines of `Bugger the torpedoes - that bloody woman's got to go!' It does have the ring of authenticity.

It reminds me of something an Army friend (Sappers/ Royal Engineers) said years ago. He was on attachment to Public Services Agency, the Dept that looks after public buildings. He was in Buck House with a member of maintenance staff, examining pipework, when the staff member pulled him into the shadows - the D of Edinburgh was storming along the corridor.

As he passed, they heard him exclaim `And where's our bloody Monarch got to now?!'

Exactly...

And the thought of that other bloody woman gurning her way through a royal funeral makes my blood run cold.
Animal Lover said…
@Louise
Nutty: The New York Times article about Canadians being giddy at the prospect of local Royalty is ridiculous for the reasons that I outlined earlier on this thread.

The NY Times is not what it use to be. It f feels more frivolous in the past few years, but it is competing for subscribers in the era of social media and reality TV.

@ Tatty
I appreciate and agree with your position on focusing on M's behavior and not her appearance, which is not to say others can't comment on since she wants to brand herself. You have a point on who is driving this break with the RF. I suspect M is in the driver's seat but have read Harry is jealous of his brother and role in life.
punkinseed said…
Since Megs has burned all of her bridges with her Demands of the BRF in the UK, how can she possibly think that she could ever return and be welcomed there ever again? Her blackmail of the BRF if they don't accept her terms is nuts. The BRF don't need to negotiate anything with her. Why bother? Harry? A little, but they have to understand that if he stays with her they've already lost him.
The worries that they don't want to alienate Harry are futile because he's already gone from them. William defined it best. Unless or until Harry leaves this psycho, any future relationship with the family is toast. The only purpose of the royal family is to SURVIVE and if it comes down to choosing between Harry and the monarchy, sorry Harry, but you've marooned yourself.
xxxxx said…
Echoing what others have said.... If the BRF is afraid of cutting off Merching Megs due to her pulling the race card, then they better hang it up. Same Royal Family that was a great example during WW2 that the Queen drove an ambulance in? Have they lost their collective minds?

Cut off Harry and Megs or find legal ways to prevent them from profiting off their Sussex status. And Megs crying racism, just tough it out or be mocked forever as idiots and push overs. Gotta love those racism threats from that scummy stooge Tom Bradby, who is Team Extortion all the way.
Glow W said…
@liver Bird you are absolutely right. Breaking away from a toxic instution would ideally mean not taking money. When I broke away, it was with the knowledge that I wouldn’t get any inheritance because I was the one who “abandoned” and left the rest of the family to deal with those two. The way I looked at it was, my sanity is totally worth the money loss.

But, I’m not talking about tens of millions of dollars.

And to whoever brought Uo the merching, yes, I agree. It’s distasteful and possibly illegal. I assume the RF will handle that tomorrow.

IF this isn’t a low key divorce negotiation that MM hasn’t figured out yet, then we can only sit back and watch (IF they get their part time move to Canada) what they will do with their names and foundation. If it turns out they do good for the world (I’m still hung up there because I believe that is what Harry wants truly) then how wonderful for everyone.

I can see how everyone is suspect of her involvement because she is a social climber (I have said this before) and loves money and expensive things (I have said this before).

We can only sit back and watch how it shakes out.
Anonymous said…
@Fedde
Excellent touch with the bold. Stealing it!

@Miller Langhorne

Here is a quick How To on doing bold and italics in HTML. https://riptutorial.com/html/example/1715/bold--italic--and-underline

https://riptutorial.com/html/example/1715/bold--italic--and-underline


Bootsy

3) It is not in the interests of the RF to make a deal in just 3 days unless they are well prepared, have ammunition and hold a strong hand.

I would argue that even if they have a strong hand, it's probably best to set the stage and let the British people become outraged first.


Scandi S

These people are so shallow to think that just because you dislike a celebrity then you must also hate all the causes & charities that celebrity is associated with.

But it’s a reflection of the world we live in now where the *celebrity* is the cause rather than the charity’s victims itself, isn’t it?

Says more about themselves, really…


I know, totally agree. I saw some commenting that they wouldn't support Earthshot for the same reason. There are myriad celebrities, political leaders, experts aligned with that, and yet, one person stops them? No. Of course, I would not support a cause where all of those experts were people like Rach & H, but in the case of Earthshot, it's a really credible cause. Bitterness stops a lot of people doing things.


@Fedde
...pulling out of PC's documentary to do their own
Thank you for this reminder. I had forgotten, and it gives me another reason to call Rach another bad name ;)


@FrenchieLiv
"unlike Hillary Clinton M.O doesn’t need Rachel.”
Not sure why HRC would need Rach, but I haven't heard HRC making any big announcements in support over the past two days. Also, HRC is supporting Earthshot, so I'd expect her to pipe down a bit on the Rach & H front.


He is stuck in a mix of pride and stubbornness.

Aren't a lot of not terribly intelligent types? Those seem to be two coping mechanisms used by those who don't possess the analytical/cognitive skills to wade thru the info.


Anonymous said…
@Jen @Alice

re this: ... sadly, it seems that we are moving towards a society full of people that cares more about themselves than others. While reading through a lot of the comments on different publications (in US, UK and CA), those who are supportive of this duo keep referencing that they need to live their life, and make themselves happy and do what makes them happy Etc...

Partially agree, but I think those same happiness types don't understand the money aspect. Wait till they find out they are paying for someone else's happiness. It's why the money matters a lot.


NeutralObserver.

I was just being silly lol. I don't actually need to see Jeff Bezos' penis. And WTH would he or any man do this? IDGI.


@Scandi Saanskrit

Elle
My guess is that most Americans don't understand that Rach & H want to leave to be independent except for the money. There needs to be time for that to sink in. I've read Rach & H are worth about $30 million -- that's generally considered to be a good, solid step towards "financial independence", and yet, they want Daddy to keep paying the bills? Let that sink in with Americans. And why do Americans matter? Social media. So yes, articles like this in the mainstream here, and then everyone, not just the British, will be..."


Agree with this. Many Americans are not aware the big issue is the ability to capitalize on the Royal connections and just see this as young lovers wanting to be free or feel that racism is the issue.

I"m surprised how many NY Times readers support this narrative. As many may be Bernie Sanders supporters and would find the merchandising aspect appalling in others.

@Scandi, Again, I'm not actually so sure about the NY Times BS supporters correlation, although I do agree that, in general, NYT is left-leaning. BS supporters, though, not sure that the NYT is their thing, but regardless, it's why I think the money is such an important factor.

Wait till the headlines start hitting that Rach & H have rejected Soft Megxit because many millions of dollars is still not enough. Wait until the breakdown of how much it's going to cost actual people starts hitting the front page. Then we'll see how much people who are paying for it care about the duo's "happiness" lol.


AvaC
I've just remembered William's determinedly swift exit from the remembrance service at the Cenotaph in November. He couldn't get away from his brother quick enough. If they appease Harry tomorrow it will be over William's dead body.

And William is the future of the monarchy, so I've got money on Wills...

Excellent point re the clapping, too. I had not thought of the booing!


Hikari

Re Kate Being the mean girl mastermind behind Woo Ono’s cold reception...harhar. Yes, Kate hated her so much that she took Meg to Wimbledon twice with her and introduced her to her sister. That was certainly cold and unwelcoming, Along with letting her children be in megs wedding. Megs just mad because Kate didn’t throw her that baby shower Meg’s promised herself.

1. True that!
2. If she tries it, want to drive up to BC with me, and have a word lol
none said…
@tatty Not to worry about the level of support from the 40 and under group for Charles' ceremony. In a few short years they will be part of the 55 and up group, and as people age their traditions become more important. That's why you see stronger support amongst the older demographics for the BRF.
Sandie said…
https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/1227416/Nigel-Farage-Meghan-Markle-Prince-Harry-Queen-Megxit-royal-news-latest

Nigel Farage blames Harry for this mess. However, people must not forget:

1. She grabbed that engagement ring before he could even finish proposing.

2. He sat her down and had a long talk explaining everything to her. She probably looked at him with adoration while clasping his hand, rubbing his arm and said yes to everything and made promises that she had no intention of keeping.
Glow W said…
@Fairy Crocodile I agree the story dies if the public doesn’t have to pay for them. I suspect Charles will pony up the security money.

@animal loved yes, I think Harry saw their role as sort of being brand ambassadors, but with the queen’s age and the sudden (or deliberate against H+M or it just happened to be the timing for it, perhaps in prep for a regency in another year) the focus on the heirs only and a slimmed down monarchy, I still feel like Harry felt abandoned and he is leading with his feelings (like Diana said in that interview). I think for Harry possibly feelings equal facts. You cannot reason with someone when they are in that state of feelings are reality, facts be damned).

@pumpkinseed IF either one or both left Canada for good and went back to settle in jolly old England, they would have to be super low key for a long time, and I’m not sure either could do it.
IEschew said…
@punkinseed: Do you think Meg has any intention whatsoever of ever returning to the UK? (Allowing that she may change her mind later.)
SwampWoman said…
Sandie said: What we are seeing is Megsy bolting. Harry is her lapdog trying to get the best deal for her post-divorce, but he thinks he is saving his marriage (he is not).

I really thought it would last longer because she needs his connection to royals to be relevant. On her own, I don't think that she will be able to draw in brand repping/merching opportunities. She doesn't seem to plan ahead more than 2 years (her average relationship time).

I don't know whether she is bipolar, a narcissist, a sociopath, a psychopath, or just has really bad ADHD, her executive function isn't what it should be.

Then there is Harry, another poster pseudo adult for executive function malfunction.

I really hope that "Archie" isn't the genetic child of both of them. Heaven help him if he is.
none said…
New Harry Markle.

https://harrymarkle.wordpress.com/2020/01/12/the-sandringham-plan-vs-the-sussex-strop/
Humor Me said…
HarryMarkle.wordpress.com
New item.
Fairy Crocodile said…
@Humor Me

Yes, Harry Markle has more hits than Dumbartons have followers.
Humor Me said…
@FairyCrocodile - the gloves came off. This piece is not satire - it tells it like it is.

and Yes, the Queen needs her 007. I hope Geidt is re-hired with a pay raise and apologies.
CookieShark said…
Would PC call her tungsten now, now that she has fled the scene like a con artist?

I actually don't think that was a complimentary nickname. If stories are true that he sent her back to Canada when she was caught photographing parts of the palace, he may be shocked that she had the nerve to continue the relationship with Harry. And he may be referring to her habit of gate-crashing events. Most of us don't show up without invites, or presume that we can just turn up somewhere and be accommodated. I'm sure he was flabbergasted that she went to the Investiture and expected to walk with the core group.
Animal Lover said…
How is appearing to shake down his 93 year old grandmother going to turn out as an exercise in brand building?

The above from a poster on the website Datalounge. It's target audience is gay men, but straight people also post on this website.

I agree with the poster. This is starting to look worse from tn if they are issueing threat s that if they don't get their way, they will do a tell all interview accusing PC, W & K of racism and sexism.
Ava C said…
@Liver Bird Dan Wooton says they will get everything they want because they now openly threaten to accuse the royal family of racism."

I say the royal family should take a deep breath and let them go ahead and do it. They've been screaming 'racism' anytime anyone has dared to criticise Meghan for the past 2 years, so they've devalued the term beyond all recognition.


I couldn't agree with you more. Racism has been a crucial shield and weapon for Meghan from the beginning but it has lost its power. HMTQ needs to call her bluff, knowing the nation and many overseas are behind her.

There's no dealing with Meghan anyway. She'd break every agreement. I loved the analogy someone made earlier on here with the velociraptor in Jurassic Park, who never stopped testing the boundary fence.
Anonymous said…
This comment has been removed by the author.
punkinseed said…
ieschew, i should have clarified better in that since they want to be part time royals and still do some royal appearances in UK that how could she expect to show her face there again at all after these demands and think she'd not be booed and hit with rotten tomatoes.
PRAYERS BEFORE ROYAL SHOWDOWN
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/ushome/index.html

OMG she must be just THRIVING with this drama.
Glow W said…
@holly good point about older people appreciating traditions more. I was separating the tradition from the anointed by God part. Will people question that: anointed by god or lucky sperm club? It may not be an issue at all.
none said…
@animal lover "How is appearing to shake down his 93 year old grandmother going to turn out as an exercise in brand building?"

Or shaking down the 60 some million people in the UK.
none said…
@tatty "anointed by god or lucky sperm club". Many would consider that the same thing.
Ava C said…
Some in the Labour Party are doing their best to keep Labour at rock-bottom in the public's estimation (writing as a former Labour member).

**** Emily Thornberry has said the taxpayer should continue to fund security for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

The Shadow Foreign Secretary, who is also running to be the next leader of the Labour party, said that if Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, do move to another country their security should still be paid for by the British public.

"I think the British taxpayer should pay for the security of Harry and Meghan and their family as they do for former ministers," she said.

Ms Thornberry added that as continued funding of security was justified for the royal couple because as an Army officer, Prince Harry had done a number of tours of duty on the front line in Afghanistan.

"He has done great service," she told BBC1's The Andrew Marr Show.

"I just hate to think what he must be thinking now, having used his instinct to try and defend our country, now he has his much-loved wife and his baby under the type of media scrutiny they are suffering. He must be really wanting to defend them." *****

One of the Corbynista leadership contenders was spouting the usual nonsense this morning about the criticism of Meghan being because she's a woman as well as the racist angle. No reference to her many failings of course. Nothing about her extravagance with public funds after a decade of austerity. No reference to her refusal to learn about this country or show any concern or interest in the bulk of the population. It made me so angry.

As a life-long centre-left person, I resent having to be angry with politicians on the left mis-reading and misunderstanding Meghan and simply applying their preconceptions without studying the detail or listening properly to the public. I don't want to find common cause with right-wing tabloids, but I don't have any choice. In this situation, they are on the side of the people.
Sandie said…
A little bit of light relief? William is known as the more reticent, conservative of the brothers. He sure likes to dance though:

Right at the end:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWmAOjm0TVk

And here he is, seemingly dancing solo:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3MtbSNC-nw
Mimi said…
So, besides their “demands” they are now “threatening” a tell all interview? I have to laugh at that one. All the queen has to do is say......
“Oh, really? You think so? Go ahead.....try it!”. The queen can wipe her and demands and threats clean off the face of the earth!
Anonymous said…
This comment has been removed by the author.
SwampWoman - I'd say she ticks every one of those boxes but not sure what that's called. Perhaps the RF has been trying to figure out how to out how get the majority of public opinion onside before getting her into treatment. Humour her, let everyone see we're doing the best for her etc.

Alas, this approach was useless against the weight of her propaganda, identity politics, H's resentment, and perhaps encouragement from by backers.

if only H could see that she's scarpered, not only from the RF but probably him as well...
Nutty Flavor said…
Story in the NYPost saying that the house Meg and Harry stayed in during the break is owned by a big donor to the Clinton Foundation.

https://pagesix.com/2020/01/12/canadian-billionaire-frank-giustra-providing-luxe-hideout-for-prince-harry-meghan-markle/
Liver Bird said…
NY Post?

That can't be right, can it?

I thought Meghan said they didn't have tabloids in America?
Anonymous said…
AVerySunshinyDay

OMG she must be just THRIVING with this drama.

And her rashness, her ego, her hubris, will be her downfall. I still contend that the "they'll make billions" stories were out for two reasons, minimum, and A-Listers walking back support and/or clarifying a lack of relationship at all tells us so much. Rach overplayed it, and the BRF probably helped that along.


Kate, if you need someone to drive you to BC back channel, pls remember, I'm the place where secrets go to die (unless we need them later), and I will happily drive. We'll have intermittent carpool disco dance-offs to make it fun.
Unknown said…
@tatty I self-identify as an INFJ. I test as an INFJ/INTJ. I don’t consider the test reliable and prefer to go by the framework in Socionics & Jungian Depth Psychology.
Fairy Crocodile said…
@CookieShark

The Tungsten is now hiding in Canada after sweating like a pig. What a laugh

I would love to witness how the wet Harry bleats about tying Charlotte's and Lois's future with his own into the furious Will's face.

Or what Camilla said to Charles before the tomorrow's meeting. Camilla could see Megsy through from day zero.

Or Phillip's presence at the meeting. I bet if he physically capable he will wheel in.

I hope they have enough salts at hand to revive Harry when he faints.
SwampWoman said…
AVerySunshinyDay said: OMG she must be just THRIVING with this drama.

I agree. Hysterical headlines are silly. This is a very unimportant woman married to a spare heir with no hair.
Rainy Day said…
https://pagesix.com/2020/01/12/canadian-billionaire-frank-giustra-providing-luxe-hideout-for-prince-harry-meghan-markle/

Keep an eye on the New York Post. They seem to have some good sources. This makes perfect sense. Frank Guistra (pronounced “juicestra”) has ties to the Clinton Foundation, is a big philanthropist, has Hollywood ties via Lionsgate Studios, is a billionaire, and happens to have a spare mansion to lend. Just Meghan’s type! THIS is the new social and business circle she wants to hang out and do deals with. Harry will always be the spare, only now he’ll be Meghan’s instead of the RF’s.
And from the NY Post article: https://pagesix.com/2020/01/12/canadian-billionaire-frank-giustra-providing-luxe-hideout-for-prince-harry-meghan-markle/

"Giustra, a divorced father of two,..." I'll just leave it right there.
Lindy said…
One way to “neutralize” her is to have so much dirt on her that will manage to find the light of day if she talks. That will effectively shut her up. I’m sure there’s plenty, including photos. Plus if she used a surrogate — not the end of the world — but it attacks her credibility. I think there are plenty of ways to shut her up.
IEschew said…
@Fairy Crocodile, re: smelling salts. Lol. I keep trying to imagine Harry facing his grandparents tomorrow. And the instructions and “pep” talk he is getting from Woko (I love the name, cannot recall whom to credit for it but ‘tis brilliant) today. How on earth will Harry look them in the eye? His grandfather will be there to make Harry do it, I am sure. And that is when Harry will crack, if he hasn’t already. I predict imminent annulment and divorce if it’s not already rolling.
Fifi LaRue said…
The Washington Post has reported that the Markles are well positioned for a big book deal, a television special, merchandising of baby clothes, and a line of cosmetics labelled "Duchess." I hope Markle has read every one of those words, and believes them fully and deeply.
Jen said…
@Miller...haha, that was my first thought. Is this billionaire married and will MM make a play....
Unknown said…
@Nutty Looks like damage control for the Russian oligarch story. Wonder if Meg has an explanation for leaving her baby on a different continent not his home with people that are basically strangers to him.

My Mom who has been very sympathetic to Meg and follows the MSM when it comes to her story made the remark, “Did she even give birth to that baby?” She couldn’t believe she could leave Archie in Canada with “friends.” My Mom kept saying: what if something happened and she couldn’t reach him. Airplanes are safe but there are no guarantees. How could she be so reckless? What kind of mother is she?
Fairy Crocodile said…
@IEschew

Yes!!! I have a mental image of Phillip bursting into the room in his wheelchair, shaking his crutch in the air and yelling "What the hell do you mean you resign!!!!!"

It's got so bizarre so fast I can only laugh at it.
Mimi said…
The hairless spare heir! 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
lizzie said…
@Wild Boar Battle-maid and @Jen both discussed travel with dogs:

It's easy to enter Canada and the UK with dogs that aren't bully breeds. Need a rabies certificate for Canada. For the UK, need the certificate and also need microchip, and proof of no tapeworm. No quarantine on either end.

The issue is the flying part. (Usually need vet Health Cert for that.) Unless flown privately (or sent by ship and there are some that specializes in pet transport) a lab (that isn't a service dog) certainly will fly *cargo.* A beagle might--- for in-cabin the carrier can't be taller than 8 inches---too short for most beagles)

British Airways doesn't fly pets in cabin but most do.

I would definitely not fly my dogs in cargo overseas for a two-month vacation. Ever. If I had the $ to fly them in the cabin of a private jet, I might, I might not do it.

If I could leave my dogs in their familar home with a trusted person to care for them I'd likely do that for a 6-8 week vacation. It honestly would be better for the dogs IMO. If these dogs were flown to Canada in early Nov, they were met at the airport and cared for by strangers it sounds like. I'd not do that either for a vacation. Of course, I never would have split up a bonded pair of dogs as MM did when she moved to the UK either (because Bogart was "too old" at age 5.)

If the dogs are in Canada I think it's clear M never meant to come back to the UK from vacation.
SwampWoman said…
@SwampWoman, based on your posts, between the two, I'd say you lean towards INTP (you show more restraint than the E version lol). Strictly data tends to go to "S" as well, however. "N"s generally link disparate pieces that most people don't see. But if I were guessing without knowing that, I'd have said ISTP (think Jack Bauer from 24).

ROFL, if it is something of great importance to me, I take no prisoners. I have no skin in the game with Markel and her prince on the hook like a prize fish.

But, yes, I have a tendency to see patterns before most people and my data points are rather esoteric to some.

I can't say that I accept the validity of the premise of personality tests, however. I can report the results of the tests when they were given, but that doesn't mean that it was an accurate test of my personality or that it even asked the correct questions.
Surrey Police! Ha ha ha

https://twitter.com/SurreyPolice/status/1215342586845630470

Dear #HarryAndMeghan,

We hear you are looking for a new role where your strong beliefs in public service, and serving the @Queen_UK could be an asset?

We’re close to Windsor, and Sussex, and we are recruiting…
Jen said…
@a Narcs Daughter...that is brilliant!
Animal Lover said…
Speaking of brands does this couple remind you of another superstar couple of many years ago named Bennifer by the tabloid press? They received a lot of media attention but it did hurt their careers for a while as people were sick of the non stop press attention.

I have no idea if the Harkles will be able to successfully brand themselves. They may on a Kardashian level but not on the Angelina Jolie or George Clooney level.
Fedde said…
Bennifer 1.0 or 2.0, Animal Lover?

'Cause 1.0 were both addicts and in 2.0 only Ben. Both relationships ended though.
SwampWoman said…
miller langhorne said...
And from the NY Post article: https://pagesix.com/2020/01/12/canadian-billionaire-frank-giustra-providing-luxe-hideout-for-prince-harry-meghan-markle/

"Giustra, a divorced father of two,..." I'll just leave it right there.


Yes, she does have a tendency to start a new relationship while still in the old relationship.

No wonder she hurried back to leave not so Harry to 'negotiate'.
Wanda said…
This comment has been removed by the author.
none said…
This comment has been removed by the author.
none said…
@nutty Interesting about the owner of the Canada house being a big donor to the Clintons.

Wasn't Hillary recently appointed as chancellor at Queen's University in Belfast?

And then there's the connection between Bill, Andrew and Epstein.
KitKatKisses said…
"It is also made clear in the Times that including Charlotte and Louis future into discussion was HazMeg idea, not the Queen's....

Well this really makes my blood boil. It is not Harry nor Meghan's business to have any input on Charlotte and Louis' future. Wow, just wow.


~~

Someone mentioned upthread that Tom Bradbury said this is the first time Charles and Wills are working together. I'm not sure that is true. I read an article a few months back about how Charles in preparing William to take over the Duchy of Cornwall, and that much of the preparation involved farming. The article went on to say that William had really taken to the farming aspect, that he had a natural affinity for the land, and how that really surprised and pleased Charles. Supposedly the pair of them had become much closer while bonding over farming.
SwampWoman said…
Holly said: @nutty Interesting about the owner of the Canada house being a big donor to the Clintons.

Wasn't Hillary recently appointed as chancellor at Queen's University in Belfast?

And then there's the connection between Bill, Andrew and Epstein.


More interesting data points again and all pointing in the same direction.
KitKatKisses said…
Elton John now stating publically he was surprised by the news and did not know before hand....
Wanda said…
This comment has been removed by the author.
KCM1212 said…
New Crowns of Britain post. Lol

https://thecrownsofbritain.home.blog
FrenchieLiv said…
@Fairy Crocodile, @IEschew
I don’t think Prince Philip will be able to attend Megxit summit tomorrow:

“Prince Philip is largely bed-ridden and is not in good health.
“He can only spend about ten minutes at a time in anybody’s company before he feels exhausted. But that has not stopped him from venting his feelings in the clearest terms possible.
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/10719643/prince-philip-blasts-meghan-harry-decision-quit/
glad someone else caught on to the divorced billionaire father of two Shes a movin on sista.

the dogs - could they not belong to security not necessarily theirs.
SwampWoman said…
KitKatKisses says: Someone mentioned upthread that Tom Bradbury said this is the first time Charles and Wills are working together. I'm not sure that is true. I read an article a few months back about how Charles in preparing William to take over the Duchy of Cornwall, and that much of the preparation involved farming. The article went on to say that William had really taken to the farming aspect, that he had a natural affinity for the land, and how that really surprised and pleased Charles. Supposedly the pair of them had become much closer while bonding over farming.

There is that but the clincher for me about this being BS is the warm relationship that Charles has with PW's children. Boss baby and young Prince George are not going to pretend about being happy to see granddad if a loving relationship doesn't exist.
SwampWoman said…
KitKatKisses says: Elton John now stating publically he was surprised by the news and did not know before hand...

Oh, snap, the word is out that she's going down and the details must be known and very nasty.
Fairy Crocodile said…
@FrenchieLive

That's a great shame. I am sorry. If Harry's tantrum brings worsening of Phillip's condition that is a big stain on Harry's soul.

Phillip's being in such poor health makes me resent Harry even more. Spoilt brat doesn't think of anybody but himself. There is a saying "God's millstones grind slowly but thoroughly".

Harry and Meghan will get their due.
Have just been having a browse about this latest chappie via Jerseydeanne.

Thoroughly unpleasant. Googled his name, also Soho House and all the usual supects. Try

www.neonrevolt.com/2018/10/24/layers-of-evil-the.. if you feel up to it.
none said…
So many curious connections....

https://pagesix.com/2020/01/12/canadian-billionaire-frank-giustra-providing-luxe-hideout-for-prince-harry-meghan-markle/
KitKatKisses said…
Re: the R card.

Criticism does not equal racism.

You aren't entitled to bad behavior based on your skin tone.

I know for many of you this is obvious, but in case Megs is reading I wanted to put this out there.
Jen said…
So I just saw two meme's about this whole thing on my friend's FB page...he is certainly not a RF follower, so was surprised. First one had a pic of Yoko on the left with words "I broke up the Beatles" and and an unflattering pic of MM on the right with the words "hold my beer"

Second meme was Daniel Craig walking with HMTQ and he says "I'll deal with the ginger prick myself" and the Queen responds,"Just the wife 007"

Funny.
Hikari said…
INFP here. I have a feeling that puts me in league with the Prince of Wales, which may be why I constantly find myself trying to defend him in our post Diana world. I did not approve of his affair, or the way he treated Diana, But history has shown that she was a handful to deal with to put it mildly, and he has more substance then just wanting to dally around being a tampon. That unfortunately is an image I have not been able to get over in 30 years. Charles does have a flair For self-expression sometimes, such as when he referred to his wayward second born as “C*nt struck“. Charles himself knows a lot about that. The difference being that the woman who bewitched him has turned out to be an asset to him, Not withstanding the decades of abuse she’s suffered At the hands of public opinion. I read that in former days she would be pelted with objects when she went out by disgruntled members of the public. That seems really hard to imagine, but Never once has she whined on camera that nobody’s asked her if she was OK. the British people are restrained Until pushed too far, or else in a football stadium, or the House of Commons
My experience of the HOC comes compliments of dramas such as The Darkest Hour. The Crown and Victoria, Which portray spirited debate across the aisle as verging very close to hooliganism at times. And this among gentle folk allegedly! Americans are as a group fairly unbuttoned in our displays of emotion, but I wonder if members of Congress are allowed to yell like that across the aisle.

I’m getting distracted. What I wanted to say is that Charles, as the next in line, needs to gird his loins now and override his natural inclination action toward Hippie dippy peace and love and steering the easiest course with his youngest. Being too indulgent with Harry is what got us here. I think William will certainly be for tough love, and if needs be, I think Philip may still be capable of administering an ass kicking To the grandson letting the side down. Philip risked the Luctwaffe and Hitlers submarines While in the Royal Navy, and personally saved lives. I don’t think he’s going to stand by and let Harry take a crap all over his grandmother without getting involved. I’d say Philip has got to be an ESTJ… No wonder he And his Woodstock generation kid have never gotten on. But Charles has got to see his kingship slipping away if he goes too soft.
FrenchieLiv said…
6 reasons why Frank Giustra is an important transactional relationship for Rachel (apart from having mansions & money) and why that could match with Rachel:

1. BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE

Frank has useful and well-connected people in his address book (eg. the Clintons: what a surprise!!!)
https://www.northernminer.com/subscribe-login/?id=1000218431

2. PHILANTHROPIST

Frank share Rachel’s interest for charities. The Radcliffe Foundation was established in 1997 by Giustra. The Vancouver-based foundation supports local and international disaster relief, economic development, and homelessness charities.
He received an award from the Dalai lama (for his work with the Radcliffe Foundation, Streetohome, the Boys Club Network, and the CLINTON Giustra Enterprise Partnership).

https://giustrafoundation.org

3. MOVIE ENTERTAINMENT

Frank is the co-owner of Thunderbird Films. As Meghan wants to do voice-over or a little bit of acting she wouldn’t need to ask favour to Disney CEO if she dated Frank!
http://thunderbird.tv

4. MUSIC INDUSTRY

Frank likes music. Giustra started Fiore Music, and Westsonic Music, and spends much of his time writing lyrics.
New songs could be inspired by his romance with Meghan or perhaps, she could sing Frank’s songs: that would break the internet!

5. BLOGGING/INFLUENCER

Frank is also a guest blogger on the Huffington Post, under "Dear Rich People".
So much in common… Meghan had to give up her precious blog but I can imagine she wouldn’t be reluctant to be a guest blogger on the Huffington Post.

6. FRANK IS COMFORTABLE WITH MEGHAN & CUTE KIDS

https://twitter.com/frank_giustra/status/507571266006425600?lang=fr

https://vancouversun.com/news/local-news/frank-giustra-revels-in-his-life-of-giving


I concur with @Swampwoman: Meghan may have rushed to Canada to secure a better meal-ticket!!!

Hikari said…
@holly

Thank you for your kind comment of earlier. I find myself wasting my weekend on the Suxxit Saga despite myself. As tawdry and sad as this whole thing has become, the decisions made in the next few days will be historic, and will indicate whether we all here will see the end of the British monarchy not only in our Lifetimes, but within the decade just begun. Apres Elizabeth Regina...Then what? All the balls are up in the air.

In regards to the Sussex marriage saying more about Meg than Harry... it was a mutual enterprise, yes. But Rachel, she of the extremely modest attributes in family, beauty, talent And financial resources of her own, was married and divorced twice by Harry’s age. After William got married almost 9 years ago, Harry became the worlds most eligible royal bachelor. His date for Williams wedding was Chelsy, The girl had known since they were both at secondary school together. She dated him on and off for 11 years, and her homebase in Africa would have seemed to make her the perfect choice for Harry. In fact he did choose her… Twice, if reports are accurate, but she turned him down both times. Citing not wishing to enter the fishbowl Of royal life is a legitimate reason to say no, But it also sounds a lot kinder than “ I know in my gut Harry would be a crap husband.” As someone astutely mentioned earlier, if Harry had married Chelsea insteadAnd asked the queen if they could spend half the year in Zimbabwe and do Royal charities from there, the queen and the public most likely would have been very happy to let them go. I still think that is what Harry would prefer, but Meg is not the partner for that enterprise. She couldn’t hack Africa for a week and a half. The footage of Chelsy at Harry’s wedding Haunts me because she looked so sad. I don’t think it was envy so much as watching a man she still cares about throwing away his life. I don’t know what exactly the future holds for Harry but I do think it will include a lifetime of regret. He just hasn’t accepted it yet.
Camper said…
@FrenchieLiv

Didn’t Toronto Paper 1 say something along the lines that she has already tried to be unfaithful, in the recent past. You can but wonder whether that link is what they were alluding to? It was perplexing to think she could be lining someone up when she and Harry seem glued together, unless she’s like my ex sister in law, who by husband 4 (my brother was No 3) used the same lines as used on him and she is exactly like Meghan. Her tactic was to play the wounded victim, the opening gambit was the doe eyed lost girl routine, any previous partner was described as violent, brutal. My brother (a gentle man) was shocked when this was said in their small town about him. She actually and I kid you not, got my brother hooked by offering him some reflexology (she printed her own certificates of competence) and literally rolled up his trousers and massaged his legs, all this whilst on an unannounced stay at a distance relatives and my brother happened to be staying too and was in a fragile relationship. Within days she had penned a letter to his then current girlfriend breaking up with her, which she got my brother to deliver.........he told me sometime later she was the best sex he ever had!

Dido said…
@tatty I am an ENTP

nutty Story in the NYPost saying that the house Meg and Harry stayed in during the break is owned by a big donor to the Clinton Foundation.

Frank Giustra? Are you kidding me? If true, this is a BIG deal!! Giustra was a major player in the Uranium One deal. Yes, he has his hands in other industries (used to own Lionsgate) but oh, my! What have Meghan & Harry gotten themselves into? Again, if this article is true... their decision to accept Giustra's hospitality might cause some major repercussions. There are ongoing investigations into various segments of the US government agencies re: Uranium One deal. Let's speculate and say that some of the people involved in various aspects of the Uranium One deal may currently be part of a FBI investigation and that a FISA warrant or some method of surveillance is active on Giustra or anyone tied to his business dealings. Yikes. Due to their association with Giustra (even via his house) means that Meghan & Harry might be caught up in a surveillance network.

Which leads me to... maybe the reason Meghan & Harry phrased it as "stepping back" from senior royal duty is because they want to keep whatever immunity being a member of the royal family provides. I think HMTQ has sovereign immunity, but wouldn't Charles and his heirs (and their wives and kids) have diplomatic immunity? Oh wow.

Below are 2 links re: Giustra

1) Giustra and his role in Uranium One
2) Giustra and his relationship with the Clintons and the Clinton Foundation (also 2A is the archived link in case Nuttiers don't have a subscription to the WaPo)

1) https://themarketswork.com/2017/12/21/a-uranium-one-primer-clinton-giustra-kazakhstans-uranium-assets/

2) https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/the-clintons-a-luxury-jet-and-their-100-million-donor/2015/05/03/688051d0-ecef-11e4-8abc-d6aa3bad79dd_story.html
2A) https://archive.is/DI2lQ
@Bluebell, AKA Trudy, AKA UnknownX

The two documentaries shown on Friday were repeats, just were just re-named. Tonight’s shorter programme on ITV appears to be new. If there’s anything new reported, I’ll report here. There might be other Nutty Brits who might see it too, who can update the blog too. ;o)
KCM1212 said…
Given the open extortion angle, Megs time in Chicago, plus the Obama "friendship", and HRCs odd accusation of racism in the British Press, I wondered if there was any connection to the Rev. Jesse Jackson. Jackson has a long pattern of soliciting donations through shakedowns. It's not a new practice, but if Meghan is trying it on with the BRF, I'll bet she has used it before, with success.

I found a glowing article Jackson wrote regarding the royal wedding, but nothing else. Has anyone heard anything along these lines?
https://www.washingtoninformer.com/jesse-jackson-a-royal-wedding-that-affirms-truly-noble-values/

I suspect it they have met its due to their political stance, along with that of the parties mentioned above. Jackson has certainly lost much of his political clout in recent years, and I am under the impression the Obamas never had much use for him.

(Puts tin hat in closet)
Wanda said…
@Nutty
I haven't finished reading all the comments from today yet, but wanted to hopefully catch you before you retire for the evening.
Can you speak to us on the issue of releasing all the negative info we know the press and the RF have on MM? In the past you have discussed super injunctions and how there are no longer any investigative journalists.

How do you think her secrets will be handled now in light of the Harkle's recent demands? Despite all the negative articles that have appeared over the last couple of days I'm surprised there haven't been more. Most of the leaks have been fairly minor with some dancing around the idea she plotted this before marrying him, and some discussion of the monetizing. Where is the baby scam, the yacht story, the sex tape, the overlapping relationship w/ Corey, details on marrying him under false pretenses, her psychiatric illness, how she treats people poorly, etc. The tabs have been sending reporters out but I'm surprised they haven't been able to dig up much more.

We have all agreed that the tabs / the RF need to release this info - and judging by the 'threats' from Tom Badby, they would be better off doing so first before Markle leaks whatever she thinks she has.

Any thoughts from your journalist's standpoint would be appreciated. TIA
Wanda said…
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said…
New post up on Harry Markle blog!
none said…
Odd looking hearing aid the Queen just started wearing. Those invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) hearing aids are generally flesh toned making them "invisible".

https://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/people/queen-spotted-wearing-hearing-aid-for-first-time-1-9199108
FrenchieLiv said…
@ Hikari : I agree with you.
I remember her face during the wedding and all the rumours about Prince Harry's allegedly tearful phone call with Chelsy before marrying Meghan Markle…
I think Harry & Chelsy would have made fantastic commonwealth ambassadors. Their tour would have been epic!
However, I do respect her decision. She had the honesty, the courage to dismiss the offer.
She rebuilt a normal life and is able to share a part of it : https://www.iol.co.za/travel/africa/look-chelsy-davy-enjoys-lavish-holiday-in-mauritius-40259007

@Camper : I don't think Meghan would be stupid at that point to cheat on Harry while the negotiations are ongoing.
When she isn’t able to take advantage of her royal status and she has a better meal-ticket she will ghost Harry.

Fedde said…
Holly
Odd looking hearing aid the Queen just started wearing. Those invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) hearing aids are generally flesh toned making them "invisible".

https://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/people/queen-spotted-wearing-hearing-aid-for-first-time-1-9199108
January 12, 2020 at 10:54 PM

Perhaps she decided it was time after missing all the palace whispers about H&M...
Anonymous said…
KitKatKisses & Swampwoman,

LOLOLOLOLhellsbells, this just keeps getting better: Elton John now stating publically he was surprised by the news and did not know before hand...

... the word is out that she's going down and the details must be known and very nasty.


And please, @Swampy, please, be right about this (I've a feeling you are!).

And speaking of swamps, we are expecting a big winter storm up here with snow and well-below freezing temps and ice, etc. It's always a mess when this happens because of big steep hills all around (google Queen Anne Seattle if you want to get one idea), and I just came back from getting emergency supplies and there is standing water everywhere. It's going to be a giant cluster. I may be stuck at home tomorrow, so if all hell is going to break loose weather-wise, not a bad day!
Dido said…
Re: Giustra: If Meghan & Harry are chummy with him, then it is evident that they do not need any $$$ from the BRF. Giustra would be happy to donate millions and millions to their Sussex Royal foundation, hell he even might set up a production company for Meghan to produce/direct/star in "woke-umentaries" until her "voice is heard" but strings WILL be attached.

I am now leaning towards Meghan & Harry need whatever "immunity" being a member of the BRF provides.

I sincerely hope that the BRF is aware of Meghan and Harry's new friends and realize that these connections (however innocent they may actually be) will forever taint the reputation of the monarchy. I fear something much more sinister is afoot.

How does one go about bringing down the monarchy? By dragging politics and political agendas into the BRF.
Ozmanda said…
And the stories are now coming out...

https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/celebrity-life/royals/prince-harry-heard-on-camera-touting-meghans-voiceover-skills-to-disney-boss/news-story/2870dd641937af70858b9ba46e7a6899
Teasmade said…
@tatty: I am INFP, along with a whole other 1% of the population.
Mimi said…
off topic... will anyone be having a party after we learn the results of the summit meeting? And if so can I join in?

(or mourning)
Anonymous said…
This comment has been removed by the author.
Love this, sarcasm at its best!


ROD LIDDLE, The Sunday Times: 'In my progressive new role, I'm stepping back from writing but keeping my salary'

'After many months of reflection and deep internal discussion with myself, I have chosen to make a transition this year to carve out a progressive new role with The Sunday Times. I intend to 'step back' from writing anything whatsoever for the newspaper while still, of course, lending my full support to both the editor and the readers and being paid exactly the same as I am now.

'I will require the services o fa private jet, a helicopter and a fleet of Range Rovers, for those times when I suddenly wish to attend a summit in a Third World country about the terrible, devastating effects of climate change and what we, as deeply concerned individuals, can do to combat it. 

'The truth is that of the many wonderful things about working for such an august institution as the Sunday Times, the one I have always appreciated most is the money, and it would sadden me, and impinge on my extremely fragile mental health, if that were to somehow 'stop' simply because I have ceased to work for it. 
''Progressive', incidentally, in my vocabulary means anything I want it to be. It could mean 'enlightened'. Equally it could mean 'utterly stupid' or 'transcendentally delusional.
Fedde said…
Dido
Re: Giustra: If Meghan & Harry are chummy with him, then it is evident that they do not need any $$$ from the BRF. Giustra would be happy to donate millions and millions to their Sussex Royal foundation, hell he even might set up a production company for Meghan to produce/direct/star in "woke-umentaries" until her "voice is heard" but strings WILL be attached.

I am now leaning towards Meghan & Harry need whatever "immunity" being a member of the BRF provides.

I sincerely hope that the BRF is aware of Meghan and Harry's new friends and realize that these connections (however innocent they may actually be) will forever taint the reputation of the monarchy. I fear something much more sinister is afoot.

How does one go about bringing down the monarchy? By dragging politics and political agendas into the BRF.

January 12, 2020 at 11:00 PM

There was an article shared here, I think it was yesterday, where it was stated that the BRF knew very well who the unknown billionaire was and they were not amused because of his shady business interests/ties.
KitKatKisses said…
I've read many assertions that Harry is now acting this way to protect Meghan because he couldn't protect his mom.

But what about William? He also really couldn't protect Princess Diana. Here is William's chance to protect his wife and his daughter as well. I just don't think he is going to lie down and let some porn actress from L.A. drag his wife and the mother of his children through the mud. Remember, William and Catherine have been together almost 20 years now. Carole and Michael Middleton are like 2nd parents to him.

Also for as many people saying Charles is wimpy and Camilla endured, true, but Charles quietly yet determinedly went about making Camilla acceptable to his family and to the public. So it shows he does have some cajones when it's important to him.
Anonymous said…
@Mimi

Yes to the party! I'll bring the mixings for Contemptinis and Crack Babies. It will need to be at someone else's virtual house, though. I don't want to do any virtual cleaning lol and am better at showing up a little late than at hostessing with the mostesting. Will someone bring gougeres, svp?
Glow W said…
Rebecca English says PC is back in Norfolk, Prince William is at Anmer Hall and no sign of Prince Harry.
Wanda said…
@Ava - I think it makes perfect sense to have the York girls join the royal work force. I agree they would make excellent additions.
I also would love to see more of Zara and Peter. Even though they are not titled they are family as well, and I'm sure could carry our some events part time. Peter Philips is sure easy on the eyes! :-)
These four are preferable to the Harkles in my book!
Mimi said…
I’m not sure if I’ll be up to making the cheese puff things. They sound delicious and I read they go with ANY kind of alcohol, be it champagne or moonshine.
Anonymous said…
Well, @Mimi, surely one of the FJs here will pop up with their foolproof secret family recipe. Cheese straws will also do. I'm not picky.
Ava C said…
@Raspberry Ruffle - thanks! There's lots of parodies of the Sussex manifesto doing the rounds but that Rod Liddle one is the best.

The original remains jaw-dropping no matter how many times we see it (and the papers are making sure we see it often!)
CatEyes said…
@tatty said:

>>>>My thoughts and feelings are very jumbled over this moving to canada thing because they are the ones in it and we only see the outside so god only knows what it’s like to be inside and a part of that institution. Maybe it is in Harry’s best interest to break away,

Maybe it’s the institution that is toxic<<<

Say what? Your floating the thought that the Queen is toxic, Charles too and William also> The very institution is toxic?

When now I see why you have defended Megs and Harry all this time. You think the poor dears may have been affected by the mean old toxic family and what the BRF institution represents.

I think many millions would disagree that the BRF is toxic.I guess then poor little Megs and Harry need to divorce themselves from this nasty institution and get far away from them and not accept any money from such a horrible institutution, along with leaving their titles behind.

BTW if it brings me any cred I am a INFP, lol.
FrenchieLiv said…
@ Diddo :
A blind gossip on CDAN earlier this week :
"Behind the scenes there was apparently a lot of drama about the owner of the house where the alliterate royal and her husband were staying. The general public doesn't know who owns it, but the family does and he has not been a friend of the country, so it was a shock the couple decided to stay there."

Latest blind gossip (Disney voice-over) :
"The PR team for the alliterate royal thought they were doing her a favor by saying it was her loving husband that helped her get an acting part. Apparently though, she was ticked off because it made it seem as if her acting isn't good and her husband had to call in favors or use his position to get her a role".
Glow W said…
Victoria Airport confirms a VIP arrival the other day:

https://vancouversun.com/news/local-news/we-had-a-vip-arrival-victoria-airport-confirms-amid-royal-buzz
Mimi said…
p.s. I don’t know if it matters but I am an ADHD (among other things)!
Anybody following this?

https://twitter.com/youallknowme999
CatEyes said…
Hilarious new post on the Crowns of Britain site. Good British satire.
Fairy Crocodile said…
Just want to add how much more disgusting HazMeg behavior becomes as I learn the details. 98 years old Phillip cracked his rib and had a knee surgery right before their wedding and yet he dragged himself out of bed to attend. Because he loved Harry and didn't want to spoil his big day.

Not only Harry missed Christmas that may be the last he chose to drop the bombshell that gravely upset the Queen, and as result, Phillip too in his really ill health.

I have no words.

Jen said…
@Tatty...I am INFP

@Averysunshineyday...that is some crazy stuff! Interesting...
Hikari said…
Just read the crowns of Britain… OMG The bins at Madame Toussauds!
Dido said…
FrenchieLiv said…
@ Diddo:
A blind gossip on CDAN earlier this week :
"Behind the scenes there was apparently a lot of drama about the owner of the house where the alliterate royal and her husband were staying. The general public doesn't know who owns it, but the family does and he has not been a friend of the country, so it was a shock the couple decided to stay there."


Latest blind gossip (Disney voice-over) :
"The PR team for the alliterate royal thought they were doing her a favor by saying it was her loving husband that helped her get an acting part. Apparently though, she was ticked off because it made it seem as if her acting isn't good and her husband had to call in favors or use his position to get her a role".
January 12, 2020 at 11:27 PM

Thank you for the blind items... yikes! How "woke" is Meghan really? She is staying for free in a house owned by a mining businessman! What about the environment?!?!?

Here is the link to the Daily Mail story on M&H staying at Giustra's. It mentions that their sources told them the house was owned by someone with a different name, and if true--it doesn't matter because even the suggested link b/t M&H and Giustra is cause for worry.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7879153/Mystery-billionaire-let-Harry-Meghan-stay-mansion-Canada-named-Clinton-donor.html
Anonymous said…
Latest blind gossip (Disney voice-over) :
...Apparently though, she was ticked off because it made it seem as if her acting isn't good and her husband had to call in favors or use his position to get her a role".


I can understand Rach's feelings here, but I think she's worried and offended needlessly, and I want to allay her concerns. I know that's not my usual, but fair is fair.

So, Rach, if you read here (and I'm sure you do), please know that none of us think that the PR re Disney made it seem like your acting is bad, and that Harry had to call in favors to get your that role. Nothing could be further from the truth.

The truth is:

Your acting is beyond bad, and Harry definitely had to call in favors to get you the part. There's no "seems like" about this.

ICYMI, you were a failure in Hollywood and a d-list actress on Suits. They didn't even give you the good clothes. There were no calls from Disney pre-H. You were not friends with the Clooneys, Ellen, Oprah, Gayle, etc. pre-H. You were never in the running to be Becky With The Good Hair. No one knew who you were. Probably some of your yacht clients didn't even remember you, although you seems to have stuck in Harvey W's mind and maybe Skippy's (Inskip, not the blogger, although wouldn't it be wonderful if they were the same person lol? ... But I digress.) Suits was ending, and you had no new gig in sight (unless glorified prostitution counts, and with you, it might). So, H and his family got you everything, and none of us have missed that fact, so you can stop worrying about what it seems like because we know what it is.

Sorry, Nuttiers, but sometimes I just need to @Rach directly
Ava C said…
A DM reader pointed out that since Meghan finds the BRF and UK toxic and their bombshell was released because Harry feared Meghan would have a meltdown, how on earth could she perform even part-time royal duties? Presumably anything British 'triggers' her now, and Harry is not far behind, if not worse, because he's triggered by all cameras, not just British ones.

With each one so concerned about the other's mental health, there's an airtight case for the BRF to call it a day. As many said they should do after the 'poor me' interviews in Africa. Given Harry's phobia about media, all he should need are his own millions and a quiet house somewhere. And Meghan seems to be lining up a more suitable prospect already ...
CatEyes said…
@ Jen & @tweeymma said…

>>>I am INFP, along with a whole other 1% of the population.<<<<


So three of us in the span of a few messages are all INFP. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!
Wanda said…
This comment has been removed by the author.
Jen said…
@bluebell..Obviously her family can talk, but they could also be sued by her for defamation, so thats a tough position. The men who she serviced on the yachts are not going to want to admit that they were involved in that kind of stuff...same with salad tossed guy.
CatEyes said…
@tatty said:

>>>Maybe it’s the institution that is toxic<<<

So what is toxic about the BRF? Please it would give us insight since I think many of us here can't seem to see that. Please inform us how they are toxic?

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