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Sussexes’ 'Cookie Queens' Flops at Box Office, Raising Questions About Commercial Pull

Analysts say the weak theatrical debut shows high-profile publicity has not translated into steady paying audiences.

Overview

  • The documentary executive produced by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle opened to disappointing box-office returns, widely reported at roughly $354,000 from 446 theaters during its first weekend.
  • Reports say 'Cookie Queens' was out-earned by 'CatVideoFest 2026,' and box-office trackers have posted differing totals, with some outlets citing higher cumulative figures from Boxoffice Pro and The Numbers.
  • Royal commentators and industry observers argued the result highlights a gap between headline-generating notoriety and the ability to convert attention into loyal, paying consumers.
  • Experts quoted in the coverage urged the couple to reduce high-volume announcements, focus on one well-executed project with experienced collaborators and let results rebuild credibility.
  • Context from the Sussexes’ recent history shows their biggest commercial spikes came from projects centered on royal revelations, and sources note that documentary releases can still find longer-term audiences through niche bookings and word-of-mouth despite weak openings.