Latest news with #Low
New York Post
4 hours ago
- Business
- New York Post
Meghan Markle's new As Ever product launch fueled by a need for ‘fame and fortune': experts
Meghan Markle is restocking her sold-out As Ever products on Friday, and several royal experts believe it's all part of her plan to be recognized as a royal entrepreneur with a reigning business empire. 'Of course, her royal title and Sussex name are boosting her brand,' British broadcaster and photographer Helena Chard told Fox News Digital. 'She will cling to this as it will help bring her [more] fame and fortune, which is imperative to her life. She will keep her fingers in many pies and her name in lights with the hope that one or more of her ideas will bring in the much-needed hard cash.' 'However, she is not likely to amass her fortune from the sales of basic As Ever treats, however delicious they may be,' Chard claimed. A post on As Ever's Instagram teased that its bringing back its products and 'some delicious surprises.' The brand is known for raspberry spreads, teas, limited-edition wildflower honey and edible flowers, or 'flower sprinkles.' Chard made her comments shortly after quotes from royal expert Valentine Low's 2023 book, 'Courtiers,' surfaced online. At the time of the book's publication, the author claimed the Duke and Duchess of Sussex left royal life because they wanted the 'freedom to make money and dip their toes into politics.' He also claimed the 'Suits' alum was eager to 'earn money for herself,' which reportedly influenced the couple's decision to make their royal exit. 6 Meghan Markle promoted her new launch early Friday morning on Instagram with a photo of her swinging captioned 'No more sleeps!' @aseverofficial/Instagram The Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back as senior royals in 2020 and moved to the wealthy, coastal city of Montecito in California. At the time, they cited the unbearable intrusions of the British press and a lack of support from the palace as their reasons for the move. That same year, the couple signed a five-year contract with Netflix reportedly worth $100 million. Their Spotify deal was said to be worth between $15 million to $18 million. Low claimed in his book that before the couple left for California, they suggested the idea of 'having a month [to a year] to do their own thing,' as quoted by the U.K.'s Daily Mail. According to the outlet, Low also said the pair considered 'spending most of their time privately but doing a select number of royal activities.' 'Some suspected that in the end [Meghan] wanted to make money,' Low wrote, as quoted by the outlet. 'And the only way she was going to do that was by leaving her royal life behind and going back to America.' 6 Products from Markle's As Ever brand will be restocked and available to purchase on Friday. @aseverofficial/Instagram Low noted that if the couple agreed to continue with royal duties, they wouldn't have been allowed to 'act or take decisions in order to gain financially.' People magazine previously reported that when Meghan and Harry announced their exit, the couple specified they would 'no longer receive funding through the Sovereign Grant,' making them 'members of the Royal Family with financial independence.' Their announcement said, 'Their Royal Highnesses prefer to release this financial tie.' 'They value the ability to earn a professional income, which in the current structure they are prohibited from doing,' they wrote, adding that financial freedom is 'something they look forward to.' At the time of Low's book launch, Archewell, which handles the offices for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, and Buckingham Palace didn't immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. A spokesperson for Buckingham Palace previously told Fox News Digital it doesn't comment 'on such books.' 6 As Ever's first product launch sold out quickly. Tamara Beckwith/NY Post British royals expert Hilary Fordwich told Fox News Digital she agreed with Low's reporting. 'What I do know is that during those negotiations [with Harry and Meghan], Queen Elizabeth II was observed to be 'visibly cringing' when the topics of both politics and money were pressed by Prince Harry,' Fordwich claimed. 'It represented the antithesis of everything the queen and the monarchy stand for.' 'I don't know who raised it, but the consensus was, 'You're all about the money. We, the monarchy is about service and dedication to duty,' Fordwich claimed. 'One of the very many reasons Princess Catherine is so immensely popular and will be a tremendous future queen is that she doesn't care about the former (money) but is dedicated to the latter (duty/service)!' 6 Prince Harry and his wife stepped down as senior royals in January 2020. Archewell Foundation via Getty Images Low claimed in his book the couple's desire to be financially independent raised many eyebrows behind palace doors. 'There was no way for the two sides to reach an agreement on that point,' he wrote, as quoted by the outlet. 'Crucially, it was the queen who took the view that unless they were prepared to abide by the restrictions that applied to working members of the royal family, they could not be allowed to carry out official duties.' 'Prince Harry always felt second best to his brother Prince William,' Chard claimed. 'Meghan was the excuse Prince Harry needed to jump ship. And Meghan wants fame and fortune. Although she received the royal title, she felt her wings were clipped.' 'They both ran off into the sunset to make their fame and fortune,' Chard added. 'It is now all about them. They can … build their Sussex court and empire. However, there are consequences for their decisions. They can't have their cake and eat it too.' Whispers of Meghan eyeing a role in politics have been persistent since the couple's move. 6 As Ever's first drop was in early April. As Ever 'I've heard from some very reliable sources that she is writing to people to try and secure political positions,' True Royalty TV co-founder Nick Bullen told Fox News Digital in 2023. 'I think that is absolutely an ambition for her. 'And I think you'll see [the Duke and Duchess of Sussex] working much more separately,' he said at the time. 'I think you'll see them concentrating on their individual brands to try and reclaim some of the ground.' Bullen is an award-winning documentarian who has been producing programs about the British royal family for 20 years. He has also worked closely with King Charles III. Keep up with today's most important news Stay up on the very latest with Evening Update. Thanks for signing up! Enter your email address Please provide a valid email address. By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Never miss a story. Check out more newsletters In 2019, True Royalty TV premiered 'Meghan for President?' It was a documentary that explored how the mother of two had always wanted to speak out on a global platform, long before she pursued acting in Hollywood. Anything is possible, Bullen insisted. Even a humanitarian ambassador's role looks promising. 'It's a very plausible argument,' Bullen said. 'I think it would be fascinating. Imagine a world in which she does make it to the White House. [Prince] Harry is the first husband. There's a state visit, and what happens then if Meghan is hosting [the British royal family] at the White House? You're going to want a front-row seat for that, aren't you?' A spokesperson for the duchess, 43, didn't immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment at the time. 6 As Ever teased there will be 'some delicious surprises' in Friday's drop. As Ever Vanity Fair's royal correspondent, Katie Nicholl, reported in 2019 that Kensington Palace sources dismissed any speculation that Meghan, who retained her U.S. citizenship, would ever run for president. Traditionally, members of the British royal family are expected to be apolitical in public, which means they cannot vote or openly express political views. In addition, such a major move would require Harry, 40, to give up his royal title. In 2024, People magazine reported that the couple's Archewell Foundation is a founding partner of the Women's Wellness (Spa)ce, a trauma-informed wellness center for women in north Philadelphia. It was created by Ashley Biden, the daughter of former President Joe Biden and wife Jill Biden. For now, Meghan seems to have her eyes on launching jam. Her lifestyle products were featured in her Netflix lifestyle series, 'With Love, Meghan,' which premiered in March. New episodes are expected to drop in the fall. Fordwich claimed Meghan still has a long way to go before the public can crown her as an authentic, relatable businesswoman. 'Either way, this relaunch means Meghan Markle will face heightened scrutiny,' Fordwich claimed. 'Her products, while marketed as accessible, remain luxury non-essentials which don't resonate with a mass market audience, especially in our current tough economic times.'
UPI
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- UPI
Bandai Namco sets 'Little Nightmares' showcase for June 24
June 19 (UPI) -- Bandai Namco announced it will host a showcase for video game series Little Nightmares on June 24. The Little Nightmares Showcase, scheduled for 3 p.m. EDT next Tuesday, will feature the latest news about the Little Nightmares franchise. The studio previously announced Little Nightmares III will be released on platforms including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series and Nintendo Switch in 2025, but an official release date has yet to be confirmed. The latest entry in the series follows heroes Low and Alone "as they search for a path that could lead them out of the Nowhere," the official synopsis reads. "Trapped within the Spiral, a cluster of disturbing places, the two friends will have to work together to survive in a dangerous world full of delusions and escape the grasp of an even greater threat lurking in the shadows," the synopsis says. The game is said to be the first in the franchise to offer two-player, co-op gameplay.
Mint
a day ago
- Business
- Mint
‘Real reason' why Prince Harry and Meghan Markle left royal family; biographer reveals
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's dramatic exit from royal life in 2020 may have had less to do with family tensions and more to do with money and personal ambition, according to royal biographer Valentine Low. In his book Courtiers, Low claims the couple left the British monarchy not just for privacy, but for the freedom to build their brand, explore political engagement in the US, and—most significantly—generate independent wealth, the New York Post reported. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who relocated to California shortly after stepping back from their royal roles, reportedly found the constraints of royal protocol incompatible with their personal and professional aspirations. According to Low, Meghan's desire to earn on her terms was a decisive factor in their departure. 'Some suspected that in the end, she wanted to make money. And the only way to do that was by leaving the royal life behind,' he writes. While the couple initially proposed a hybrid model—engaging in select royal duties while living independently—the Palace reportedly declined, citing concerns about preserving the neutrality and decorum of the Crown. Queen Elizabeth II is said to have taken a firm stance: members of the Royal Family must follow its protocols or step aside entirely. The Sussexes' post-royal chapter has included headline-grabbing deals and strategic brand building. In 2020, they inked a reported $100 million content deal with Netflix, marking their entry into the global streaming and storytelling space. Markle has since launched a lifestyle brand and podcast, while also planning new digital ventures. These business moves have turned the couple into high-profile entrepreneurs on the world stage. Their proximity to US political circles has also stirred speculation. Though they have stopped short of formal political involvement, both have shown support for the Biden administration, including collaborations during the Invictus Games. Meghan's connections with top Democrats—including Valerie Biden Owens, the US president's sister—have fuelled ongoing rumours about a potential future in politics.
New York Post
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- New York Post
The real reason Meghan Markle and Prince Harry quit royal life: biographer
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry sensationally shut the door on royal life and hightailed it across the pond in 2020. Why? Money. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex burned all bridges with the Windsor clan on their way out because they wanted to 'the freedom to make money and dip their toes into politics,' prominent royal author Valentine Low claims. In his tell-all book 'Courtiers,' Low alleges that Harry and the 'Suits' alum, 43, left the palace in the rearview mirror so that they could focus on being financially independent and live a life away from the public lens. Advertisement 5 Meghan Markle and Prince Harry sensationally shut the door on royal life and hightailed it across the pond in 2020. Getty Images Low claims that the former actress' total desire to 'earn money for herself' was the final nail in the coffin to have influenced their decision to exit stage left. As the couple, who wed in 2018, brainstormed all their viable options, they even explored 'having a month a year to do their own thing,' Low claims, via the Daily Mail. Advertisement The author adds that the duo also considered 'spending most of their time privately but doing a select number of royal activities.' The one caveat to the pair continuing their public-facing royal duties was that they had to stick to royal protocol — which include 'normal rules about royal behavior.' 5 The Sussexes burned all bridges with the Windsor clan because they wanted to 'the freedom to make money and dip their toes into politics,' according to a royal author. Getty Images 'Some suspected that in the end she wanted to make money,' Low writes. 'And the only way she was going to do that was by leaving her royal life behind and going back to America.' Advertisement Low added that had the couple agreed to continue with royal duties, they would not have been allowed to 'act or take decisions in order to gain financially.' Elsewhere, Low claims that the Sussexes — who share son Archie and daughter Lilibet — wanted the freedom to get involved with US politics. 5 Since quitting royal life in 2020, the couple moved to Montecito, Calif. REUTERS While this claim has never been confirmed by the couple, Low claims this desire was a major breach of royal protocol behind palace doors. Advertisement 'There was no way for the two sides to reach an agreement on that point,' he wrote. 'Crucially, it was the Queen who took the view that unless they were prepared to abide by the restrictions that applied to working members of the royal family, they could not be allowed to carry out official duties.' The Post has reached out to reps for the Sussexes for comment. 5 Following their royal exit, the duo signed a steep $100 million deal with Netflix. Netflix While the 'Spare' author, 40, and his wife have never actively gotten involved in politics, it's been widely reported that they boast a close friendship with the Biden family. The duo previously collaborated with the Bidens for the Invictus Games, and were vocal about their support of the former president in the 2020 election against Donald Trump. Free from the shackles of royal protocol, the pair thrust their unwavering support behind Biden in the 2020 US presidential race. Start your day with all you need to know Morning Report delivers the latest news, videos, photos and more. Thanks for signing up! Enter your email address Please provide a valid email address. By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Never miss a story. Check out more newsletters Advertisement What's more, Markle — who has long been rumored to have been eyeing a career in politics — appears to be close to President Biden's sister, Valerie Biden Owens. The mom of two has long been rumored to forge connections with top Democrats since moving back home to the US in 2020. In 2023, Biden Owens reportedly 'endorsed' Markle as a woman she would back for the White House, though the former actress has never announced plans for a White House bid. 5 Markle has rolled out a series of new businesses in recent months, from her Netflix show and lifestyle brand to a revamped podcast and digital storefront. JAKE ROSENBERG/NETFLIX Advertisement As for their financial freedom, the Sussexes have been no strangers to inking multi-million dollar deals in recent years. Markle has rolled out a series of new businesses in recent months, from her Netflix show and lifestyle brand to a revamped podcast and digital storefront. The duo also signed a steep $100 million deal with Netflix through which they've rolled out a number of projects so far.
Straits Times
13-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Straits Times
The Chic Home: Japan-inspired HDB maisonette for a family of four
Retro window grilles, an original feature of the unit, lend this family's HDB maisonette an old-school charm. PHOTO: HAPPE DESIGN ATELIER The Chic Home: Japan-inspired HDB maisonette for a family of four SINGAPORE – When devising the brief for their home, the owners of this four-room HDB maisonette had just returned from a trip to Japan. Their designer, Mr Jacob Low of Happe Design Atelier, was heading to the Land of the Rising Sun the following week. Unsurprisingly , the couple, who are in their late 30s and early 40s , decided to adopt a Japanese-inspired theme for the 1,593 sq ft unit in Lorong Ah Soo. The husband and wife – he works in sales, she is an office manager – originally wanted a minimalist, wabi-sabi style. However, as parents to two young daughters aged three and six , they realised the look would be difficult to pull off with the girls' hotchpotch of toys and books. So, they settled for a Japanese style with neutral white walls, wood elements and a touch of retro inspired by some of the home's existing features. Mr Low says: 'The home owners emphasised the importance of creating a spacious communal area that would serve as a central hub for gathering and socialising, as well as a highly functional kitchen that meets their everyday needs. 'Additionally, they expressed a strong desire for a design that would leave a lasting impression on guests.' Left vacant for a while, the unit was derelict and overrun with pests. It underwent an extensive overhaul to the tune of about $150,000 for the renovation works, and $50,000 for the furniture and furnishings. Neutral white walls and wood elements are key elements of the design. PHOTO: SPH MEDIA Inspired by the genkan, a traditional entrance vestibule in a Japanese home, the entrance foyer sets a welcoming tone with its dark tiles in deliberate contrast with the adjoining spaces. A built-in shoe-cum-display cabinet showcases the couple's collection of toys and memorabilia from their travels, offering not just storage, but also a glimpse of their personalities. A built-in shoe-cum-display cabinet showcases toys and travel memorabilia. PHOTO: SPH MEDIA The entrance foyer transitions into a front-facing kitchen. As passionate bakers, the couple needed a kitchen that could accommodate simultaneous cooking and baking, says Mr Low. The entrance foyer transitions into a front-facing kitchen. PHOTO: SPH MEDIA The spacious layout and expansive countertops provide ample room to manoeuvre and prepare food. Gold cabinet handles and a marble-like quartz backsplash complement the dark wood laminate to give the kitchen an aura of sophistication . The expansive kitchen can accommodate simultaneous cooking and baking. PHOTO: SPH MEDIA Located right beside the kitchen is the dining space, the heart of the home. As avid hosts, the couple requested a versatile dining table that can cater to both large gatherings and intimate family dinners. They eventually found a convertible dining table from Castlery, which they paired with a wooden settee with rounded corners. These are juxtaposed against a backdrop of retro window grilles, an original feature of the unit, which lend the space an old-school charm. A vintage red slatted door opens up to reveal the powder room. PHOTO: SPH MEDIA One of the items on the couple's wish list was a visually striking powder room. The guest bathroom has a vintage red slatted door with old-school ventilation blocks above. The room's modest size belies the rich detailing , which transports its users to Japan. The powder room is reminiscent of traditional Japanese architecture. PHOTO: SPH MEDIA 'The carpentry integrates Japanese design principles, showcasing vertical lines reminiscent of traditional architecture. Thoughtfully designed niches offer practical storage solutions, seamlessly blending functionality with aesthetic appeal,' says Mr Low. The couple also converted the balcony into a dedicated play area for their daughters, where the whole family can enjoy the peace and serenity of the space . The master bedroom has two distinct zones: one for sleeping and one for the walk-in wardrobe. As the couple are light sleepers, this separation ensures that their rest is undisturbed , while addressing their needs for ample storage. The sleeping zone in the master suite. PHOTO: SPH MEDIA By integrating the bathroom vanity with the walk-in wardrobe, Mr Low freed up space within the master bathroom to accommodate a small, standalone bathtub. With the vanity now part of the walk-in wardrobe, the couple has more space in the en-suite bathroom. PHOTO: SPH MEDIA The family moved into their new home in December 2023 after a four-month renovation. This article first appeared in Home & Decor Singapore. Go to for more beautiful homes, space-saving ideas and interior inspiration. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
