EXCLUSIVE: AFTER A-LIST REJECTION, MEGHAN MARKLE TURNS TO INFLUENCERS TO BUILD HER BRAND

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Meghan Markle is making a major shift in strategy — and insiders tell Naughty But Nice it’s happening because Hollywood’s biggest stars never fully embraced her.

After years of trying to establish herself within elite celebrity circles alongside names like Oprah Winfrey, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Beyoncé, sources say Meghan is increasingly turning to social media influencers to help grow her lifestyle brand, As Ever.

“Meghan wanted to be part of Hollywood’s inner sanctum,” a source tells me. “She thought relationships with the biggest names in entertainment would lead to lasting friendships, partnerships, and opportunities. It simply didn’t happen.”

While Meghan succeeded in generating headlines alongside A-list stars, insiders say many of those relationships never developed into the close alliances she was hoping for.

“The interest wasn’t mutual,” says one well-placed source. “Hollywood was happy to be photographed with her, but very few people were inviting her into their real circles.”

Now Meghan is betting on influencers instead.

A recent collaboration with lifestyle creator Olivia McDowell is just one example of what insiders describe as a broader effort to connect with audiences outside traditional celebrity networks.

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“This pivot is happening because the A-list route didn’t work out,” says an insider. “The people Meghan wanted most either kept their distance or moved on. Influencers are more accessible, more collaborative, and often more valuable commercially.”

Still, those close to Meghan insist she’s not giving up.

“She keeps moving forward,” says a source. “When one door closes, she looks for another. That’s always been her approach.”

As one Hollywood insider puts it: “If the celebrities won’t come to Meghan, Meghan will find a different audience.”

Cheers,

Rob Shuter

And remember... if you’re going to be naughty, you’ve got to be nice. 💋