Where were you on March 7, 2021, when millions gathered to watch the CBS Primetime Special:CBS Presents Oprah with Meghan And Harry? Ratings show that the 2-hour special was one of the most watched entertainment specials from 2020 – 2021, being compared with Grammy and Super Bowl ratings. The special aired on CBS from 7 pm – 10 pm ET and ratings show that the special had 17.1 million viewers.
Oprah opened, what is said to be one of her most, “bombshells of an interview,” by showing previous media clips of the couple. The first clip showed Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s royal wedding, opening the interview with the words,
“Nearly 2 billion people around the globe watched their wedding, from the outside it appeared to signal a new day for the modern British monarchy. They became one of the most talked about couples in the media. Then in January 2020, Harry and Meghan stunned the world and decided to step back as senior member of the Royal Family. Tonight, for the first time they tell their story.”
Even with such a strong opening statement by Oprah, the world wasn’t prepared for what came next. The couple did indeed share their story with Oprah. During the shocking interview, Meghan revealed her experience with the royal family. One of the jaw-dropping moments is when Meghan spoke of her experience while pregnant with her first child Archie. She claimed that while pregnant, the royal family expressed, “Concerns … about how dark his skin might be.” Prince William responded to the claim when he was caught off guard by a reporter when directly asked, “Is the royal family racist?.” Prince William said, “We are very much not a racist family.”
Now, nearly two weeks after the special aired, it is being reported that the royal family is considering hiring a diversity tsar or chief. Several news outlets have reported that although it’s too early to announce solid plans, close sources say, “Lots of measures are being considered … we are listening and learning to get this right.” With the couple referring to the royal family as, “The institution,” or “The firm,” it begs one to question if or when diversity actions will be put into place. As with many organizations, making cultural change takes time and is very challenging. Judging by the millions that viewed the CBS special, it is safe to say that many eyes are on the royal family right now. Many are counting on them to do the right thing!
