'Oh please': Internet scoffs at Meghan Markle being touted ‘visionary female leader’ on SXSW panel lineup

AUSTIN, TEXAS: Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is once again stepping into the spotlight, this time at the prestigious SXSW festival in Austin, Texas.

Billed as a "visionary female leader" and "bestselling author," Markle's appearance on a high-profile panel has ignited a firestorm of reactions, with criticism swirling across the Internet.

As the festival gears up for its opening day, all eyes are on the former royal, who is poised to tackle the complex and sensitive topic of social media's impact on the mental health of teenage girls, while also championing the importance of representation and challenging stereotypes in the realms of media and entertainment, as per Daily Mail.

Meghan Markle scheduled to appear on star-studded panel

The 42-year-old royal is scheduled to appear on a star-studded panel on the festival's opening day, alongside esteemed personalities like actress Brooke Shields and renowned author Katie Couric.

The highly-anticipated session, titled 'Breaking Barriers, Shaping Narratives: How Women Lead On and Off the Screen', promises to delve into the profound impact of social media on the mental health of teenage girls.

Moderated by Errin Haines, host of 'The Amendment' podcast, the panel will also feature the insights of pop culture expert Nancy Wang Yuen.

In a statement, the festival organizers emphasized, "Women's representation in media and entertainment has come a long way, but there's still much to be done, especially for women of color and mothers."

"Social media's omnipresence has raised the stakes, creating an often dangerous environment which has led to serious mental health issues for teenage girls in particular."

Meghan Markle expected to tackle critical issue of representation in media and entertainment

Alongside her esteemed co-panelists, Markle is expected to tackle the critical issue of representation in media and entertainment. The Duchess, known for her advocacy work and philanthropic efforts, has consistently used her platform to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity.

"On International Women's Day, we'll hear from visionary female leaders at the forefront of news, media, entertainment and philanthropy who are breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and working toward a healthier society on and off our screens," the organizers stated, underscoring the significance of the event.

SXSW, short for South by Southwest, is an annual event that commemorates the intersection of technology, film, music, education, and culture. The festival is scheduled to take place from March 8 to March 16.

Internet erupts with heated reactions to Meghan Markle's participation as  'visionary female leader'

The announcement of Markle's participation as a "visionary female leader" has sparked heated reactions across the Internet.

One X user dismissed her billed title with a "Oh please," while another demanded clarification, stating, "Explain how 'visionary' and 'leader' apply to her?"

A third commentator derisively remarked, "I will be so happy when MegHag runs out of her husband's money to blow on PR, such as this load of crap right here."

Allegations of self-promotion surfaced with another individual suggesting, "Obvs wrote that herself."

Another user accused Markle of opportunism, remarking, "Visionary? She schemed and climbed her way up her whole life. I guess if using & discarding people is visionary."

Another user gave a blunt response, "Breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes? Hahahaha."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.