Experts in royal affairs are debating Meghan Markle's presence on stage with Prince Harry during a recent polo award ceremony. Critics argue that her participation appeared unanticipated and somewhat uneasy.
During an episode of Sky News Australia's "The Rita Panahi Show," host Rita Panahi and royal commentator Kara Kennedy engaged in a lively debate over Markle's unexpected stage appearance. Panahi questioned Markle's presence on stage as Prince Harry and his polo team accepted their awards and observed a lack of engagement with Markle from those present.
"Why is she even on stage? It's all very puzzling," queried Panahi.
Panahi also pointed out an attempt by Markle to receive an object from one of Prince Harry's teammates, who did not hand it over. Panahi labeled the incident as disastrous and highly mortifying for the couple, known for their meticulous image management, and sought Kennedy's views on the situation.
Kennedy detailed, "Harry had just clinched a trophy at an event at the Santa Barbara Polo Club. Over the past couple of months, I've discussed the media campaign following Harry's memoir 'Spare,' emphasizing Meghan's strategic balance in her public presence."
Expanding on her point, Kennedy added, "She usually seizes every opportunity to claim the limelight, which was evident at the event. However, it was evidently inappropriate for her to be on stage in this case."
According to Kennedy, the event was primarily about Prince Harry and his team, not a premeditated PR occasion, though Markle might have perceived it differently. She also found it intriguing that Markle was present at the polo match, yet absent during Prince Harry's book promotion earlier in the year.
Kennedy argued, "Her lack of involvement in the promotion of 'Spare' may be because she anticipates that the full impact of Harry's memoir will potentially tarnish her image. But with an event like this, where Harry is making a personal effort to integrate with a local sports team, she seems unable to resist the urge to intrude."
Entertainment Tonight, which shared a clip from the event, countered that Markle was on stage to present the trophy to her husband and his team. The report also highlighted affectionate exchanges between the couple and Markle's stylish attire - a black-and-white polka dot blouse, white Bermuda shorts, a black belt, and matching black hat, sunglasses, and pumps.
The contested event occurred last May. In the aftermath, the couple has maintained a low profile, particularly following a troubling encounter with the paparazzi in New York City. Additionally, rumors have been circulating about potential tensions in their marriage after a muted celebration of their fifth wedding anniversary last month.
