Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, and Prince Harry were previously estimated to cost $1 million (£774,132) per appearance according to a leaked document. But an events manager has claimed the Sussexes’ contract demands may put potential clients off booking the couple for future events.
The royal couple signed up to the New York-based speakers’ bureau, Harry Walker Agency (HWA) in June.
The leaked four-page document labelled ‘Virtual Event Request Form’ reportedly asks event organisers to detail a fee and full sponsorship information.
The international events manager told he found it “fascinating” that the demands are similar to those enforced by the Royal Family when they attend events.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped down as senior members of the Royal Family earlier this year.
The source said that a lot of organisations who may want to book the Sussexes for an event will “raise their eyebrows” at how much control they are demanding.
He added: “Harry and Meghan coming on the speaker circuit is certainly as significant as the likes of President Obama or Arnold Schwarzenegger.
“The pair are fascinating, uniquely experienced individuals, who have a wide reach, who would have been a huge draw to a live audience pre COVID.
“So back then figures between the 750k and $1m mark seemed steep, but possible.”
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The leaked document from the Sussexes’ agency reportedly asked for information on what “connection format” will be used during an event and details about contingency plans in case there is a technical failure.
The royal couple also reportedly want a final say on who introduces and moderates their speeches during events they attend.
The source said: “The contract paperwork appears to read that the speakers have full control of the client’s event. It certainly raises eyebrows and will put off many potential large corporations.
“Not many clients ever like inviting talent as star guests, who may be seen as running their event and telling them what to do.”
The events manager also explained that the Sussexes’ requests are uncommon for 99 percent of speakers in the industry.
He warned that many organisations who are willing to pay the full $1 million will “not like being bossed around on how to run their events and who will speak”.
He added: “No speaker or paid guest, in my experience, has ever been allowed to have approval of each aspect of a corporate event, including former US Presidents.
“Probing sponsors and corporations for the Sussexes makes sense given how particular they are about issues like the environment, equality and child poverty.
“Another key point is that their interest in the financial and fundraising aspect of charitable causes is smart. The last thing they want to be associated with is an event, which is not successful.”
The source expects 90 percent of opportunities will be passed on “once their speaking brand reaches its peak”.
