In a stunning display of public disapproval, Meghan Markle faced a humiliating snub at the 2025 Time 100 Gala when Olympic champion Simone Biles pointedly refused to address her as “Duchess.” The moment, captured on red carpet footage, sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, signaling a significant cultural shift in how Meghan is perceived.

As Biles was asked about Meghan during a press interaction, she omitted any royal title, simply referring to her as “Megan.” This intentional disregard was more than a mere oversight; it was a calculated statement reflecting a growing disillusionment with Meghan’s self-styled royal identity. The absence of acknowledgment from Biles, a woman who has earned global respect through grit and authenticity, starkly contrasted with Meghan’s desperate attempts to cling to her title—a title she has criticized yet continues to exploit for personal gain.

The gala, meant to celebrate influence and achievement, instead highlighted Meghan’s waning relevance. Once celebrated as a beacon of change and empowerment, Meghan’s recent endeavors have faltered, from a canceled Spotify podcast to a Netflix project that never saw the light of day. With Biles’ refusal to play along with the “Duchess” fantasy, the message is clear: the façade of royal status is crumbling.

As Hollywood’s elite increasingly distance themselves from Meghan, Biles’ silent rebuke resonates louder than any headline. This moment underscores a broader cultural rejection of performative narratives, as true achievers like Biles highlight the difference between authenticity and theatrics. No longer can Meghan count on titles to validate her worth; in the eyes of influential women, her royal branding is fading into irrelevance. The silence from power players who once supported her is deafening, marking a dramatic shift in the landscape of celebrity and influence.