Meghan Markle Event Organizer’s Company Reportedly Collapses Amid $500K Debt Drama

Meghan Markle’s upcoming Australian appearance is facing fresh scrutiny after the PR executive behind the event reportedly ran into major financial trouble.

Per a Tuesday, March 17 news.com.au report, Gemma O’Neill — the talent agent helping organize the Duchess of Sussex’s high-priced “girls’ weekend” retreat — has seen her agency collapse because she owes more than $500,000 in taxes.

O’Neill’s company, Gemmie Agency, entered voluntary liquidation in November, with debts totaling over $543,000 owed largely to the Australian Taxation Office, per the Australian outlet. She has reportedly told administrators she cannot repay the amount due to limited income and no personal savings.

Despite the financial turmoil, the Duchess of Sussex, 44, is still expected to headline the three-day “Her Best Life retreat” in Sydney from April 17 to April 19. VIP tickets cost upwards of $3,000 and include a gala dinner, live interview and a group photo with the former royal.

The luxury event, organized through O’Neill’s Besties venture with radio star Jackie “O” Henderson, is expected to host around 300 guests, per the event’s website.

As Star previously reported, the former Suits star could be earning a staggering $1 million appearance fee.