Prince Harry has been cautioned about the potential fallout from writing a sequel to his memoir, “Spare.” The first book, which has already stirred significant controversy, delves deeply into his personal life and grievances with the royal family. Critics argue that another installment could further damage his relationships and public image.
The release of “Spare” has been met with mixed reactions. While some appreciate Harry’s candidness, others feel he has overshared, revealing intimate details that many believe should have remained private. The memoir includes anecdotes about his personal life, such as his experiences in Afghanistan and his strained relationship with his brother, Prince William. These revelations have led to accusations of hypocrisy, given Harry’s previous complaints about media intrusion.
Ellen Gainsford, a British journalist based in New York, expressed her fatigue with the constant media coverage of Harry and Meghan. She noted that while the couple’s desire to tell their side of the story is understandable, the sheer volume of content—ranging from books to interviews and a Netflix series—has been overwhelming. Gainsford also pointed out that Harry’s decision to air so much dirty laundry publicly has diluted his valid criticisms of the British press.
Victoria Arbiter, a royal commentator, highlighted the potential long-term consequences of Harry’s disclosures. She argued that the deeply personal nature of the memoir represents a significant betrayal and could make it difficult for Harry to repair his relationships with his family. Arbiter also noted that Harry’s actions contradict his stated desire for privacy, as he has frequently engaged with the media to share his side of the story.
Stephanie Krikorian, a New York Times bestselling ghostwriter, offered a different perspective, arguing that Harry’s memoir is both a continuation of Princess Diana’s tragic story and a compelling read. She acknowledged that while the book might be seen as a terrible idea, it also provides a cathartic outlet for Harry to share his truth.
Despite the varied opinions, one thing is clear: the release of “Spare” has had a significant impact on public perception of Prince Harry and the royal family. Whether a sequel will exacerbate this remains to be seen, but the potential fallout is something Harry should carefully consider.
Source: Vanity Fair, The Guardian, BBC
