How Tom Cruise became impossible to dislike (despite his chequered dating history)
The Telegraph
“Cruise isn’t a celebrity in the modern sense,” says Mark Borkowski, a PR guru who specialises in crisis management. “While the rest of Hollywood overshares, he glides above it all with that fixed, high-beam smile and an off-switch for shame. People forget that he’s the final relic of the studio-era illusion, and that he demands absolute control over the narrative, zero oxygen for scandal and a professional polish that suffocates inquiry.”
How Tom Cruise became impossible to dislike (despite his chequered dating history)
Meghan Markle excited by Netflix first-look deal despite ‘downgrade’ claims
The Mirror US
The Duchess also expressed being “grateful” for the “creative partnership” she maintains with Netflix, who collaborate with her alongside her As Ever lifestyle brand. Despite Meghan’s optimism about their new venture with the streaming giant, PR guru Mark Borkowski previously expressed his belief that the first-look deal was a “downgrade” for the couple.
He explained that Netflix had, in his opinion, “done a very neat job of pivoting away from two very expensive people who didn’t deliver.”
The Duke and Duchess also signed significant contracts with Penguin Random House – which published Harry’s explosive memoir Spare – and Spotify back in 2020, the latter of which was estimated to be worth $24 million.
Meghan Markle enjoys star-studded Los Angeles vegan dinner
Daily Mail
Mark Borkowski, arguably the UK’s leading PR guru and crisis manager, told the Daily Mail that Meghan’s photo op blitz in NYC looks desperate – and lacks substance. ‘She is trying her hand to re-enter the global stage without waiting for an invitation. Fashion for the eyeballs, humanitarianism for the legitimacy, Washington for the gravitas. It’s less about proving one thing than layering enough optics to obscure the vacuum underneath’, he said.
Meghan Markle enjoys star-studded Los Angeles vegan dinner | Daily Mail Online
Duchess of Sussex says new TV deal is ‘sign of strength’ despite rumours Netflix is distancing from pair
The Sussexes previously described their latest deal with Netflix, which is also a partner in As Ever, as “extending their creative partnership”.
But PR and crisis expert Mark Borkowski has called it a “downgrade,” and suggested Netflix had “done a very neat job of pivoting away from two very expensive people who didn’t deliver”.
With Love, Meghan first ran on the streaming platform in March this year, with its second season released in August.
Its launch coincided with the unveiling of Meghan’s As Ever brand, with her first products including her raspberry jam, and the flower sprinkles she repeatedly promotes throughout the show.
But the eight-part series, which sees the duchess give hosting tips and cooking with her celebrity friends, was savaged by critics.
https://www.lbc.co.uk/article/meghan-markle-as-ever-netflix-5HjdFML_2/
Inside Keanu Reeves’ Lasting Appeal: Industry Experts and Insiders Dish on Why He’s So Different (Exclusive)
US Weekly
Reeves is unapologetically offline, and image experts say it works in his favor. “Keanu’s the anti-celebrity celebrity,” says PR agent Mark Borkowski. “In an age when stars are desperate to be liked, he isn’t hustling for approval. He’s not trying to out-meme himself on TikTok or sell you his wellness brand between films.” By not “flogging tequila or NFTs,” adds Borkowski, the star has become “the last great leading man — and the internet’s reluctant saint. He embodies a rare truth about modern celebrity: Success isn’t about screaming the loudest, but knowing when to stay silent.”
Inside Keanu Reeves’ Lasting Appeal: Hollywood Insiders Tell Us Why (Excl) | Us Weekly
Meghan Markle compares herself to the Obamas as she tries to put a positive spin on her Netflix woes… and takes another apparent jab at Royal family
Daily Mail
The Sussexes previously described their latest deal with Netflix, which is also a partner in As Ever, as ‘extending their creative partnership’.
The nature of the deal means Netflix can say yes or no to film or TV projects before anyone else.
But PR and crisis expert Mark Borkowski called it a ‘downgrade,’ and suggested Netflix had ‘done a very neat job of pivoting away from two very expensive people who didn’t deliver’.
The launch of series one of With Love, Meghan in March coincided with the unveiling of her As Ever brand, with her first products including her raspberry jam, and the flower sprinkles she repeatedly promotes throughout the show.
Meghan Markle breaks silence on Netflix ‘downgrade’ and compares herself to Obamas
The Mirror
Despite Meghan’s positivity about the new chapter with the streaming platform, PR expert Mark Borkowski previously said he believed the first-look deal to be a “downgrade” for the couple, explaining that Netflix had, in his view, “done a very neat job of pivoting away from two very expensive people who didn’t deliver”.
Meghan Markle breaks silence on Netflix ‘downgrade’ and compares herself to Obamas – The Mirror
Meghan Markle says her new Netflix partnership is similar to the Obamas’vThe Duchess of Sussex said the new contract gave her and Harry ‘flexibility’
The Independent
Text content
The Sussexes previously described their latest deal with Netflix, which is also a partner in As Ever, as “extending their creative partnership”.
But PR and crisis expert Mark Borkowski has called it a “downgrade,” and suggested Netflix had “done a very neat job of pivoting away from two very expensive people who didn’t deliver”.
With Love, Meghan first ran on the streaming platform in March this year, with its second season released in August.
Its launch coincided with the unveiling of Meghan’s As Ever brand, with her first products including her raspberry jam, and the flower sprinkles she repeatedly promotes throughout the show.
But the eight-part series, which sees the duchess give hosting tips and cooking with her celebrity friends, was savaged by critics.
Is Meghan about to launch ANOTHER business venture? Duchess of Sussex’s PR blitz continues – as experts predict her next move will be in ‘make up or fashion’
Daily Mail Online
Mark Borkowski, arguably the UK’s leading PR guru and crisis manager, told the Daily Mail that Meghan’s photo op blitz in NYC looks desperate – and lacks substance.
‘She is trying her hand to re-enter the global stage without waiting for an invitation. Fashion for the eyeballs, humanitarianism for the legitimacy, Washington for the gravitas. It’s less about proving one thing than layering enough optics to obscure the vacuum underneath’, he said.
Meghan Markle shares ‘incredible’ update after Netflix speculation
OK! Magazine
The Sussexes had previously described their latest agreement with Netflix, which is also a partner in As Ever, as ‘extending their creative partnership’. However, PR and crisis expert Mark Borkowski has labelled it a ‘downgrade’, suggesting Netflix had ‘done a very neat job of pivoting away from two very expensive people who didn’t deliver’.
Meghan Markle shares ‘incredible’ update after Netflix speculation – OK! Magazine
Meghan Markle ‘dreaming of return to global stage’ with relaunch across Europe and US
GB News
Mark Borkowski, a leading PR expert, stated that each of the Duchess of Sussex’s public appearances tied her to a different industry or cause.
Mr Borkowski told the Mail: “She is trying her hand to re-enter the global stage without waiting for an invitation.
Meghan Markle ‘dreaming of return to global stage’ with relaunch across Europe and US
Duchess of Sussex says new Netflix deal is ‘sign of strength’ for partnership
Telegraph & Argus
Duchess of Sussex says new Netflix deal is ‘sign of strength’ for partnership
The Sussexes previously described their latest deal with Netflix, which is also a partner in As Ever, as “extending their creative partnership”.
But PR and crisis expert Mark Borkowski has called it a “downgrade,” and suggested Netflix had “done a very neat job of pivoting away from two very expensive people who didn’t deliver”.
With Love, Meghan first ran on the streaming platform in March this year, with its second season released in August.
Its launch coincided with the unveiling of Meghan’s As Ever brand, with her first products including her raspberry jam, and the flower sprinkles she repeatedly promotes throughout the show.
Will Meghan’s latest wine gamble pay off? Experts warn Duchess of Sussex’s Sauvignon Blanc launch is ‘risky’ – following a ‘muted’ reception to her 2024 rosé
Daily Mail Online
Leading publicist Mark Borkowski told the Daily Mail: ‘They have shot the golden goose of 2020 – more of a ‘we’ll call you’ than ‘here’s the chequebook’. It’s a first-look deal, which means Netflix gets first dibs but no obligation to bankroll every semi-royal whim.
‘I reckon Netflix is trimming fat industry-wide, so this is less carte blanche, more curated cameo.
‘They’re still in business together – Meghan’s. As ever brand and seasonal specials keep them in the Netflix shop window but make no mistake, this is a slimmed-down sequel to the blockbuster original. So Harry and Meghan’s new Netflix chapter [is] less champagne budget, more Prosecco by the glass.’
How Victoria Beckham has done what Meghan Markle never could
Daily Mail
The renewed deal was described by the Sussexes – who made the announcement with Netflix – as ‘extending their creative partnership’ through Archewell Productions.
But the new terms are understood to be worth less for Harry and Meghan than their previous contract, according to a person familiar with the deal, and represent Netflix loosening its ties with the couple.
Leading publicist Mark Borkowski told the Daily Mail: ‘They have shot the golden goose of 2020 – more of a ‘we’ll call you’ than ‘here’s the chequebook’. It’s a first-look deal, which means Netflix gets first dibs but no obligation to bankroll every semi-royal whim.
‘I reckon Netflix is trimming fat industry-wide, so this is less carte blanche, more curated cameo.
‘They’re still in business together – Meghan’s. As ever brand and seasonal specials keep them in the Netflix shop window but make no mistake, this is a slimmed-down sequel to the blockbuster original. So Harry and Meghan’s new Netflix chapter [is] less champagne budget, more Prosecco by the glass.’
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-15181205/meghan-markle-white-wine-launch.html
PR Woman Transforms King Charles Image with Human Touch
Orbital Affairs
Colleen Harris: The Communications Powerhouse Behind King Charles’s Modern Image
When the British monarchy found itself at a crossroads of tradition and modernity, few individuals played as pivotal a role in shaping its public image as Colleen Harris. Often described as the PR strategist “who helped turn Prince Charles into a human being,” Harris’s return to the royal fold as King Charles’s communications advisor marks a significant chapter in the monarchy’s ongoing evolution.
A Trailblazer in Royal Communications
Colleen Harris’s career is distinguished by a series of firsts. As the first Black press secretary to a senior member of the royal family, her appointment in the late 1990s was groundbreaking. According to The Guardian, Harris’s approach was characterized by empathy, transparency, and a deep understanding of public sentiment, qualities that proved invaluable during some of the monarchy’s most challenging moments.
Her initial tenure coincided with a period of intense scrutiny for the then-Prince of Wales. Public perception of Charles was at a low ebb, shaped by years of negative press and personal upheaval. Harris’s strategy was to humanize the prince, encouraging openness and authenticity in his engagements. As royal commentator Valentine Low noted in a recent interview, “Colleen Harris brought a warmth and accessibility to Charles’s public persona that had previously been lacking.”
A Return at a Critical Juncture
Harris’s return to the royal household as King Charles’s communications advisor comes at a time when the monarchy faces renewed calls for transparency and relevance. In a tweet that quickly gained traction, royal journalist Omid Scobie observed, “Colleen Harris’s return is a clear signal that King Charles values experienced, empathetic communication in a rapidly changing media landscape.”
Recent studies underscore the importance of effective public relations in maintaining institutional trust. The 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer highlights that 61 percent of respondents believe leaders should be more open and honest in their communications. Harris’s proven track record aligns closely with these expectations, positioning her as a key asset in the King’s efforts to modernize the monarchy’s image.
Addressing Public Concerns and Building Trust
One of the most pressing concerns among royal watchers is whether the monarchy can adapt to contemporary values while preserving its unique heritage. Harris’s approach offers a blueprint for achieving this balance. By prioritizing authentic storytelling and proactive engagement, she has helped bridge the gap between the royal family and the public.
For example, during her previous tenure, Harris was instrumental in orchestrating community visits and charitable initiatives that showcased Charles’s personal commitment to causes such as environmental sustainability and youth empowerment. These efforts not only improved public perception but also demonstrated the monarchy’s capacity for meaningful social impact.
Expert Opinions and Case Studies
Communications experts widely recognize Harris’s contributions. In a recent article for PRWeek, industry veteran Mark Borkowski remarked, “Colleen Harris understands that the monarchy’s survival depends on its ability to connect with people’s real lives. Her return is a smart move at a time when authenticity is more important than ever.”
A case in point is the successful launch of The Prince’s Trust International, which Harris helped promote during her earlier tenure. The initiative has since supported over one million young people worldwide, a testament to the power of strategic communication in driving positive change.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Royal Communications
As King Charles navigates the complexities of his new role, Harris’s expertise will be crucial in shaping the monarchy’s narrative. Her emphasis on openness, empathy, and community engagement resonates with a public that increasingly demands accountability from its institutions.
The renewed partnership between King Charles and Colleen Harris signals a commitment to evolving with the times while honoring tradition. As royal historian Robert Lacey recently commented, “The monarchy’s ability to endure rests on its willingness to listen, adapt, and connect. Colleen Harris embodies these qualities, making her an invaluable advisor in this new era.”
In an age where public trust is hard-won and easily lost, the return of Colleen Harris to the royal communications team offers both reassurance and inspiration. Her legacy—and her ongoing work—remind us that even the most venerable institutions can find fresh relevance through the power of authentic storytelling and genuine engagement.
PR Woman Transforms King Charles Image with Human Touch – Orbital Affairs
How Gary Neville’s attack on the flag backfired
The Telegraph
“It was the wrong time to drop a broadside at exactly the wrong moment in the news cycle,” says crisis consultant Mark Borkowski. “He’ll probably argue it was an aside that’s been blown up. But if he were to stray into Lineker territory, he’d have to wear a very thick suit of armour – and I think people would carefully ignore him, which would be a financial downturn for him.”
It helps, he says, that Neville isn’t at the BBC, where it would be “a different kettle of fish” after something like this. “It’s a squall. But why would Sky lose him? He’s probably one of their most valuable pundits.”
Borkowski agrees. “It was insensitive, but this is not the same accelerant as blighted Gary Lineker.”
From eugenics to Scooter Braun: how Sydney Sweeney became one of the most controversial stars in Hollywood
The Standard
“It’s absolutely a tactic,” says celebrity PR expert Mark Borkowski, “because as soon as you disclose that in the age of culture wars, you are cannon fodder.”
Borkowski and Gamble both compare this apolitical side of Sweeney to Taylor Swift, who famously took a long time to disclose her political stance around the 2016 election, despite incessant pleas from her fans to denounce Donald Trump. At the time, PRs and critics claimed it was due to Swift wanting to capitalise on her fandom being split between both camps, and not wanting to lose half her audience.
No one else can brand it like Beckham
The Times
“Fame is quite toxic, particularly when you’re living your entire life in the glare of publicity. Your kids don’t have the same normal life as the person next door. And it’s very, very difficult,” says Mark Borkowski, a veteran publicist and strategist. “So you see clearly the pain of that in a family. But that isn’t the business.”
His status as a gay icon, who had posed on the cover of Attitude magazine, was severely undermined when it was revealed he had signed a long-term deal to promote the World Cup in Qatar. But in retrospect, Borkowski says, the negative publicity “just supercharged him. In his case the old adage ‘all publicity is good publicity’ is true.”
Prince Harry And Meghan In Talks With Netflix For Princess Diana Documentary In Renewed Deal
MSN
PR expert Mark Borkowski told the Daily Mail that the couple’s once-lucrative arrangement appears to have shifted.
“They have shot the golden goose of 2020 – more of a ‘we’ll call you’ than ‘here’s the chequebook,” he said.
Borkowski explained that the new agreement is a “first-look deal, which means Netflix gets first dibs but no obligation to bankroll every semi-royal whim.”
He continued: “I reckon Netflix is trimming fat industry-wide, so this is less carte blanche, more curated cameo. They’re still in business together – Meghan’s. As Ever brand and seasonal specials keep them in the Netflix shop window, but make no mistake, this is a slimmed-down sequel to the blockbuster original.
“So Harry and Meghan’s new Netflix chapter [is] less champagne budget, more Prosecco by the glass,” he added.
Sarah Ferguson’s reduced life from charity axe to exile and ‘financial destitution’
The Mirror
A PR expert, Mark Borkowski, branded the emails “reputational napalm” to Sarah.
“When a children’s hospice decides the reputational risk of association outweighs the patronage of a Duchess, the verdict is clear: she is toxic. Charities are bellwethers for public trust. If they won’t touch her, then publishers, sponsors, and producers won’t either. This isn’t a PR headache – it’s financial destitution dressed up as disgrace,” Borkowski explained.
Sarah Ferguson’s reduced life from charity axe to exile and ‘financial destitution’ – The Mirror