Meghan Markle on Flexibility and Challenges: Insights from Fortune's Summit
Meghan Markle Dishes on Her Netflix Deal, Slams Social Media, and Shows Off Her Business Skills
In a high-profile appearance at Fortune's Most Powerful Women summit in Washington DC, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, dished out juicy details about her business ventures and spilled tea on social media. The royal mom-of-two looked stunning in a $328 blue and white strappy dress from sustainable label Hope for Flowers by African American designer Tracy Reese as she took to the stage.
Meghan's first-look deal with Netflix has been making waves, with some claiming it was a "downgrade" compared to their previous partnership. However, Meghan didn't seem to be phased by the criticism, instead choosing to emphasize the flexibility her new deal offers. "My husband and I were in an overall deal with Netflix...and then the extension of it, which was such an incredible sign of the strength of our partnership," she said. "Now we're in a first-look deal, which is also exciting because it gives us flexibility to go to our partners first, and then at the same time be able to shop content that might not be the right fit for Netflix but has a home somewhere else."
Meghan's business acumen was on full display as she spoke about her new lifestyle brand As Ever, which she launched earlier this year. The brand is inspired by Meghan's love of cooking and entertaining, and it seems to be gaining momentum. "I'm excited to share with you all the opportunities and challenges of life as a highly visible founder," Meghan said. "As someone who has navigated entrepreneurship in the public eye, I know how crucial it is to build a brand that will endure."
But Meghan wasn't just there to talk about her business ventures – she also used her platform to address a pressing issue: social media. As a parent of two young children, Archie and Lilibet, who are still too young for social media, Meghan expressed concerns about the impact technology could have on their lives. "Like so many parents, we think constantly about how to embrace technology's benefits while safeguarding against its dangers," she said.
Meghan's comments came as her husband Prince Harry was being honored as a humanitarian and mental health advocate at the World Mental Health Day Gala in New York last week. The couple was also named Humanitarians of the Year, with Meghan expressing gratitude for the recognition. However, it seems that Meghan is taking her role as a philanthropist very seriously – she's been busy attending numerous high-profile events, including a recent appearance at the Balenciaga Spring-Summer 2026 show in Paris.
But Meghan's trip to Paris was not without its hiccups. The Duchess of Sussex was seen awkwardly laughing with designer Pierpaolo Piccioli as a model took a tumble on the catwalk during the fashion show. When her friend didn't seem amused, Meghan turned back around to watch the show with a more neutral expression, though a representative insisted she was not laughing at the model falling.
Despite the gaffes, Meghan seemed to be having fun on her whirlwind tour of the French capital. She even shared an awkward kiss with Piccioli – but it seems that their friendship may be a bit one-sided. In an interview, Piccioli revealed that Meghan had asked him if she could attend his show, rather than him sending her an invitation.
Meghan's Washington DC appearance marked her first at the Fortune summit in five years. She joined other high-profile speakers, including actress Selena Gomez and former Vice President Kamala Harris, to discuss the opportunities and challenges of life as a highly visible founder. As she wrapped up her speech, Meghan seemed to be on a roll – but only time will tell if her business ventures will pay off.
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In related news, it seems that Meghan's fashion sense is not just for show. According to sources close to the royal family, Meghan has been quietly working with designers to create sustainable and affordable clothing lines for women around the world. The initiative, which is expected to launch soon, aims to promote body positivity and self-love among women.
As the Duchess of Sussex continues to build her business empire, it's clear that she's not afraid to take risks or speak her mind. But will her latest ventures pay off? Only time will tell – but one thing is for sure: Meghan Markle is a force to be reckoned with.
