A prominent PR expert has recently labeled fans of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as “dangerous,” sparking a heated debate about the influence and behavior of the couple’s supporters. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been making significant strides in their post-royal life, but their fanbase has come under scrutiny for its aggressive defense of the couple.
The Sussexes have been busy building their brand and expanding their team. Their latest hires indicate a strategic move to solidify their global presence. Miranda Barbot, the former Director of Global Communications, has been promoted to Vice President of Programs and Media Operations. This promotion left a vacancy that Harry and Meghan filled by hiring two new executives, one based in the UK and the other in the US.
Charlie Gipson, the new Director of Communications based in the UK, is tasked with managing the couple’s often contentious relationship with European media. This move suggests that Harry and Meghan are confident in their post-royal endeavors, such as the successful Invictus Games and the upcoming launch of American Riviera Orchard. Their global reach is expanding, and they seem to have found their footing after a tumultuous period dominated by negative British tabloid coverage.
In the US, Kyle Boulia has joined the team as the new Deputy Press Secretary and Director of Communications for American media outlets. Based in Los Angeles, Boulia’s role will help bridge the couple’s connections between Hollywood and their philanthropic efforts. His previous experience at the high-profile talent agency UTA is expected to be an asset.
These strategic hires come after PR experts expressed concerns about the couple’s direction following their departure from royal duties. Molly McPherson, a PR expert, noted in August 2023 that Harry and Meghan’s inconsistency had made them vulnerable. She suggested that they needed to settle on a clear brand, a process that now seems to be taking shape.
However, the couple’s fanbase has been a point of contention. Critics argue that their supporters can be overly aggressive in defending Harry and Meghan, often attacking anyone who criticizes the couple. This behavior has led some to label the fanbase as “dangerous,” raising questions about the impact of such fervent support on public discourse.
The Sussexes’ fans have been accused of driving rumors and creating a hostile environment for those who do not share their admiration for the couple. This aggressive defense has been particularly evident in online spaces, where supporters often clash with critics and other royal fans.
Despite the controversy surrounding their fanbase, Harry and Meghan continue to push forward with their plans. Their recent hires and strategic moves indicate a clear focus on building a sustainable and influential brand. As they navigate their post-royal life, the couple’s ability to manage their public image and the behavior of their supporters will be crucial.
The debate over the Sussexes’ fanbase highlights the broader issue of celebrity influence and the power of social media. In an age where public figures can directly engage with their supporters, the line between healthy admiration and dangerous fanaticism can become blurred. For Harry and Meghan, finding a balance between leveraging their support and addressing the concerns about their fanbase will be an ongoing challenge.
As the couple continues to build their brand and expand their influence, the scrutiny of their fanbase is unlikely to diminish. The label of “dangerous” fans adds another layer of complexity to their public image, one that they will need to navigate carefully. With their new team in place, Harry and Meghan appear to be taking steps to manage their communications more effectively, but the behavior of their supporters remains a critical issue that could impact their long-term success.
