In a world where image is everything, Meghan Markle and her loyal Sussex Squad have mastered the art of deflection. This exposé dives into the tactics used to shield a 'royal' reputation, questioning the narratives of racism and authenticity that have captivated Hollywood and beyond. It also uncovers the darker side of online fandom, including using fake accounts to target critics and silence dissent.

The golden age of silent films wasn’t all glitz and glamour—it masked the harsh realities that actors faced behind the scenes. From grueling work schedules to exploitative contracts, the early 20th-century studio system wielded immense control over performers’ professional and personal lives. Without the protection of a union, actors endured long hours, unfair pay cuts during the Great Depression, and suffocating multi-year contracts that dictated every aspect of their careers. This atmosphere of control extended into the social realm, giving rise to the theory of “lavender marriages”—arranged unions designed to preserve public personas in the face of societal scrutiny. In a world where every move was orchestrated, creating the Screen Actors Guild in 1933 became the long-awaited answer to years of silent struggles and marked a turning point in Hollywood's labor history.

In 1927, a visionary group of 36 industry pioneers, including directors, actors, producers, and writers, founded the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Created to foster harmony within the film industry, the Academy swiftly evolved into a prestigious institution celebrating cinematic artistry. Its crowning achievement, the creation of the Academy Awards, cemented its role as a beacon for innovation, excellence, and the preservation of motion picture history.