In a curious twist on traditional anniversary celebrations, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle opted to mark their sixth year of marriage by dining with Hollywood executives rather than enjoying a private dinner for two.
The couple was spotted at Lucky’s Steakhouse, a high-end restaurant in Montecito, California, known for its extravagant prices, where a single steak can cost up to £125.
Joined by friends Brian Robbins, CEO of Paramount Pictures, and his wife Tracy, the Sussexes indulged in a meal that raised eyebrows, especially considering Harry’s past claims of being a vegetarian.
The menu boasted an array of appetizers priced between £26 and £40, with steak selections that included a 10-ounce New York Strip at £63 and a hefty 20-ounce bone-in rib chop at £125.
One can’t help but wonder if this lavish outing was a business expense disguised as a personal celebration.
When most couples celebrate their wedding anniversaries, they might exchange heartfelt cards, gifts, or even flowers.
A romantic dinner is often the norm, perhaps reminiscing about the wedding day or sharing intimate moments together.
However, Harry and Meghan took a different route, choosing to celebrate their special day in the company of others, which has sparked some speculation.
The Sussexes have reportedly forged a close friendship with the Robbins over the years, having attended the One Love film premiere together in Jamaica earlier this year.
Interestingly, Tracy Robbins was among the first recipients of Meghan’s homemade strawberry jam from her new venture, American Riviera Orchard.
This connection raises questions about whether the couple is looking to establish a more business-oriented relationship with Paramount as they seek new opportunities following the end of their Netflix contract.
Royal commentators suggest that Meghan may be attempting to persuade Paramount to sign her on for future projects.
Despite the studio facing financial challenges, Meghan appears undeterred, perhaps viewing this dinner as a chance to network.
It wouldn’t be surprising if Harry casually mentioned Meghan’s voiceover skills during the meal, leaving Brian Robbins to ponder his decision to dine with the couple.
The choice to spend their anniversary with others rather than in private highlights a growing narrative that Meghan views her marriage as more of a business arrangement than a romantic partnership.
Typically, anniversaries are intimate occasions reserved for couples, yet Meghan and Harry used this milestone to further their professional interests.
According to reports from a YouTube channel, a staff member at Lucky’s Steakhouse revealed that Meghan and Harry did not originally plan to join the Robbins for dinner.
Contrary to initial claims of a double date, it seems Meghan approached the couple and asked to join them, leaving observers questioning whether this was spontaneous or orchestrated.
The evening’s dynamics were noted by onlookers, with Meghan taking the lead in conversation, sharing anecdotes that included her well-known dish soap story and her newfound identity as a Nigerian princess.
Meanwhile, Harry seemed somewhat disconnected from the discussion, appearing to miss the flow of the conversation as Meghan engaged with the Robbins.
Adding another layer to this already intriguing scenario, insiders suggested that Meghan may have been tracking the Robbins’ schedule, raising eyebrows about her intentions.
Despite efforts to present a friendly interaction, it seems the Robbins may have viewed the encounter with skepticism, if not irritation.
As the Sussexes continue to navigate their post-royal lives, this anniversary dinner serves as a reminder of their complex relationship with celebrity culture and their ongoing quest for relevance in Hollywood.
While many couples cherish their anniversaries as a time for reflection and romance, Harry and Meghan have chosen a path that intertwines personal milestones with professional aspirations.