Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been the subject of intense scrutiny and criticism as they continue to navigate their lives post-royalty. The couple, who stepped down from their roles as senior members of the British Royal Family in 2020, have been accused of acting like “Prom King and Queen” by royal experts and commentators.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have faced backlash for their perceived approach to public life, which some critics argue is more about maintaining a glamorous image than addressing serious issues. This criticism has been particularly vocal following the announcement that Prince Harry would receive the Pat Tillman Award for Service. The award, named after the late NFL player and war hero, has sparked controversy, with some, including Tillman’s mother, suggesting there are more fitting recipients.
Royal commentator Charlotte Griffiths expressed her views on the matter, stating, “I get the impression that life for Meghan Markle at the moment is a sort of prom event and [Harry] is the prom king and she’s the prom queen, setting up all these events over the years that they can attend together.” Griffiths pointed out that Meghan did not attend the Living Legends of Aviation event with Harry due to a similar controversy, raising questions about their approach to public appearances.
The couple’s actions have been described as “tin-eared” by some, who argue that they are not fully attuned to the gravity of the events they attend. “Life isn’t a red carpet event for them to show off their brand; there are some very serious events out there, and they are being tin-eared,” Griffiths added.
The criticism extends beyond their public appearances. Meghan Markle has been notably absent from the UK since the couple’s departure from royal duties, with royal commentator Sarah Hewson suggesting that Meghan is unlikely to return to the UK due to her strained relationship with the Royal Family. This ongoing rift has been a significant point of contention, with the couple’s actions and decisions continually under the microscope.
The backlash has also affected their professional endeavors. Critics claim that Harry and Meghan are “struggling to find their feet” in their new roles, particularly after being dropped by Spotify and facing an ultimatum from Netflix. Guardian columnist Arwa Mahdawi noted that the backlash over Harry’s nomination for the Pat Tillman Award “speaks volumes” about how “badly his brand is faring in his new home.”
Despite the criticism, some have come to Harry’s defense. Grant Harrold, King Charles’s former butler, argued that it is “unfair” to judge Harry based on his personal life, emphasizing that the award is for his work with the Invictus Games, which supports injured and sick servicemen and women. Harrold stated, “I think what he did with the Invictus Games was brilliant, and I am glad he is still doing things for them.”
The couple’s relationship with the Royal Family remains strained, as evidenced by Prince Harry’s response to a text from his brother, Prince William, following their explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey. In their Netflix documentary, Harry’s seven-word reply, “I wish I knew what to do,” highlighted the ongoing tension between the brothers.
Royal expert Kinsey Schofield suggested that Harry’s decision to accept the ESPY award is part of a larger strategy to change public perception and bolster the Sussex brand. “This is huge for the Sussex brand, and they’re trying to tell people that they should like Harry and Meghan because they’re martyrs,” Schofield claimed.
However, the couple’s brand appears to be faltering in the US, with author Arwa Mahdawi noting that America is “growing tired” of the Sussexes. This sentiment is echoed by royal expert Hilary Fordwich, who urged the Royal Family to “sever all ties” with Harry and Meghan to avoid further complications.
Despite the challenges, Meghan Markle’s friend Serena Williams has stood by Harry, hosting the ESPY Awards where he received the Pat Tillman Award. This support has provided a boost for Harry amid the ongoing controversy.
The couple’s future remains uncertain, with some suggesting that Harry should make a major U-turn to save his dwindling popularity. A recent poll by Express.co.uk asked readers whether Harry should accept the award or give it up for someone else, reflecting the divided public opinion.
Prince Harry’s relationship with his family continues to be a topic of interest, with reports suggesting that he believes Prince William and King Charles “wouldn’t ever forgive” him if he decided to write another tell-all book. This tension was further highlighted by body language expert Jesús Enrique Rosas, who noted Meghan’s “nervous” behavior next to Princess Kate during a royal outing.
The couple’s personal relationships have also been affected, with royal author Tom Quinn claiming that Harry’s friends refuse to visit him in the US due to Meghan’s behavior. Quinn stated that Harry’s friends find Meghan “difficult” and that Harry avoids meeting his old friends from the military as they are part of the “pre-Meghan world.”
Despite these challenges, Meghan is reportedly seeking reconciliation with Princess Kate, feeling “remorse” over their long-running feud. However, royal expert Hilary Fordwich believes that Meghan has a long way to go before Kate sees the benefit of burying the hatchet.
As the couple continues to navigate their new lives, they face ongoing scrutiny and criticism. Whether they can overcome these challenges and change public perception remains to be seen.
Source: Express, Guardian, Mirror, Fox News
