In a surprising twist, the anticipated reunion of the beloved TV series Suits may take place without its former star, Meghan Markle.
The actress, who gained fame for her role as Rachel Zane on the show from 2011 to 2018, has reportedly made some hefty requests that have been publicly dismissed by Jeanne Klein, the former co-CEO of NBCUniversal.
Fans have been buzzing about the possibility of a special episode to celebrate the show’s 10th anniversary.
However, negotiations with Markle have hit a snag.
Sources indicate she has asked for an eye-popping $5 million just to make an appearance.
This figure is quite substantial, even for a major network like USA.
Adding to the drama, Markle is also seeking complete creative control over her character and storyline, a demand that has raised eyebrows among the show’s producers.
Klein, in a candid interview, made it clear that a reunion could very well happen without Markle.
She bluntly stated, “We’re not going to pay $5 million to get anyone to show up.”
Her comments suggest that while the producers are keen on reuniting the original cast, they aren’t willing to compromise the integrity of the project for one actor’s demands.
This situation has sparked speculation that the creative team might choose to move forward with the reunion minus Markle’s character.
While it’s hard to imagine Suits without Rachel Zane, insiders have floated ideas on how to address her absence.
One suggestion involves sending Rachel off on an extended business trip, allowing other characters to discuss her while she remains off-screen.
There’s even talk of using flashbacks or limited video calls to keep her presence felt without her physically being there.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Markle has faced criticism for her financial expectations.
Back in 2018, rumors swirled that she sought a significant salary bump for the final season, asking for between $40,000 and $50,000 per episode, up from her previous pay of $50,000.
At that time, USA Network reportedly turned down her request, and it seems history is repeating itself with her latest demands.
As of now, Markle and her representatives have not commented on the ongoing negotiations or the figures being discussed.
She has previously expressed uncertainty about returning to acting, citing her royal duties in the UK as a potential obstacle.
Yet, Klein’s remarks strongly imply that the chances of Markle participating under her current terms are slim.
Despite the turmoil surrounding Markle’s involvement, fans of Suits remain eager to see the original cast come together.
Klein acknowledged this sentiment, emphasizing that the reunion could still be a success with cameos from existing actors, ensuring that the essence of the show is preserved without one individual overshadowing the collective effort.
While Markle’s absence would undoubtedly disappoint some fans, it appears producers are determined to honor the legacy of Suits, even if it means moving forward without its former leading lady.
As discussions continue, the fate of the 10th-anniversary special remains uncertain.
Only time will reveal how this iconic American drama will celebrate its milestone, but one thing is clear: the show must go on, with or without Meghan Markle.
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