Throwback Snapshot of Meghan Markle Sparks Controversy

A recent Christmas post by Howie Mandel has caused quite a stir among royal fans.

The throwback snapshot features Mandel and Meghan Markle during their time on the popular game show, Deal or No Deal, long before she became the Duchess of Sussex.

The picture dates back to season 2 of the show, which aired between 2006 and 2007.

Mandel shared the photo on his Instagram account, accompanied by hashtags such as “Happy Holidays,” “Meghan Markle,” “Deal or No Deal,” and “Christmas.”

However, some royal enthusiasts believe that Mandel's intention behind posting this picture was to mock Meghan Markle.

In the photo, Mandel can be seen making a goofy face while wearing a Santa hat, while the other girls are smiling.

Meghan, on the other hand, is captured with what some describe as a hyena-like expression.

One netizen commented, claiming that Meghan's smile appears wide and false, suggesting that she lacks genuine emotions.

Another individual remarked that her smile looks manic and questioned her peculiar neck and throat position next to a superior.

It is worth noting that Meghan had previously expressed her dissatisfaction with her role as a briefcase model on the game show.

She complained about feeling like a bimbo and revealed that she eventually quit because it made her feel intellectually inadequate.

Interestingly, rumors circulated suggesting that Meghan's close relationship with host Howie Mandel played a part in her departure from the show.

Some even claimed that Mandel's wife insisted on Meghan's dismissal due to their perceived proximity.

In response to Meghan's claims of objectification during her time on Deal or No Deal, the UK-based production company responsible for the show refuted her allegations.

Lucas Green, the company's chief content officer, stated in an interview with Variety that he does not agree with Markle's characterization of the show's briefcase models as objectified bimbos.

He emphasized that the show has evolved over the years and continues to adapt to represent the values of the company and society at large.

As an example, the UK version now features members of the public opening the boxes instead of models.

Meghan's comments on a podcast ignited a backlash from former models who worked on the game show, many of whom vehemently disagreed with her claims.

Patricia Carra, a former Deal or No Deal model, expressed that she never felt objectified during her time on the show.

Carra emphasized that everyone involved in the production understood their role, willingly auditioned, and accepted the job.

Another former model, Donna Feldman, echoed Carra's sentiments, stating that she never felt like a bimbo while working alongside Howie Mandel.

Feldman attributed her success on the show not only to her looks but also to her positive nature, personality, and strong work ethic.

She acknowledged the physical demands of the job, such as standing in high heels for extended periods, but considered them part of the agreement she willingly entered.

It is important to recognize that each individual's experience may differ, and these former models have shared their perspectives based on their own encounters.

The controversy surrounding Meghan Markle's past on Deal or No Deal continues to generate debate among fans and critics alike.