Months after Meghan Markle spoke out about feeling objectified during her time as a briefcase model on the popular game show Deal or No Deal, a high-ranking executive has come forward to deny these accusations.

Lucas Green, the chief content officer at BaniJ, the company that owns the Deal or No Deal format, addressed Meghan Markle’s comments in an interview with Variety published on May 24th.

When asked about Meghan’s claim that the show objectified its briefcase models, Green firmly stated that he disagreed.

He emphasized that the show has undergone significant changes over the years to ensure it aligns with the company’s values and reflects the evolving societal norms.

Green also mentioned that the UK version of the show will continue to feature individuals from all walks of life as briefcase openers.

Rumors had circulated suggesting that Howie Mandel’s wife, Terry Mandel, played a role in Meghan’s departure from the show after just nine days due to her growing friendship with the host.

However, these rumors remain unconfirmed.

In October 2022, Meghan made headlines when she discussed her experience on Deal or No Deal during an episode of the Archetypes podcast on Spotify.

She revealed that she felt like a “bimbo” on the show and disliked how it made her feel intellectually diminished.

Meghan expressed her discomfort with being reduced to a specific archetype and highlighted the pressure for the models to conform to a particular beauty standard, even being provided with spray tan vouchers each week.

However, Meghan faced criticism from her former cast members who appeared on the show.

Model Claudia Jordan disputed Meghan’s claims, asserting that the show never treated them as bimbos but instead offered numerous opportunities.

Jordan explained that the producers selected models with outgoing and fun personalities who would engage with the contestants.

Another co-star, Lisa Gleave, echoed Jordan’s sentiments, stating that Meghan’s comments were insulting and that the show provided them with chances to pursue other opportunities in the entertainment industry.

Dina Curcione, the former stylist for Deal or No Deal, offered a different perspective on the briefcase models.

She expressed her love for the show and defended its reputation, emphasizing the hard work put in by the wardrobe team, producers, crew, hair and makeup artists, and host Howie Mandel.

Curcione highlighted the privilege of designing looks for the show and praised the dedication of the models in making the show a success.

In conclusion, the controversy surrounding Meghan Markle’s claims of being objectified on Deal or No Deal continues to spark debate.

While some of her former colleagues have come forward to dispute her allegations, the show’s chief content officer has stated that efforts are being made to modernize and align the format with the values of the company and society.

The impact of Meghan’s remarks on the perception of the show remains to be seen.