Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's ambitions of becoming a dominant power couple in the U.S. appear to be unraveling as the pair seem to diverge in their approaches, according to royal commentators. The couple, who once presented a united front on various projects, now seem to be pursuing individual ventures, signaling the end of their "power couple" brand, which once drew comparisons to the Obamas and the Clooneys. Royal experts suggest that their initial strategy of jointly tackling business and philanthropic ventures has shifted.
Richard Eden, the Daily Mail Diary editor, stated on the Palace Confidential podcast that Harry and Meghan are "separating in terms of their strategies." He highlighted that the pair, who initially launched projects like their podcast and Netflix series together, are now working on separate initiatives. Meghan has been filming a cooking and lifestyle show, expected to air next year, while Harry has focused on a Netflix project centered around polo, a stark contrast in the content they're producing.
"Their dream of being an A-list power couple lies in tatters," Eden remarked, noting that Meghan notably did not accompany Harry during his recent trip to New York City. Harry attended events alone, including speaking at the United Nations for Nelson Mandela Day. Meghan's absence from these high-profile engagements has fueled speculation that the couple's once-shared vision has shifted.
Broadcaster and royal author Victoria Murphy agreed with this assessment, suggesting that Harry is focusing more on his philanthropic work, particularly the initiatives that gained him widespread admiration while he was still a working royal. "Harry seems to be focusing on philanthropy," she said, citing his ongoing commitment to the Invictus Games and WellChild, causes that were central to his royal life.
By contrast, Meghan is pursuing business ventures and appears keen to push ahead with her new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, which has already faced some obstacles due to trademark issues. Murphy explained that while Harry looks back at his royal achievements, Meghan's focus is now firmly on building a business empire in the U.S. "Meghan seems more business-focused now," she said, signaling that the couple may have diverging interests in their post-royal life.
Eden also highlighted a growing sense that Harry is nostalgically reflecting on what some have dubbed his "peak" period as a royal, a time when he was heavily involved in humanitarian work in Africa and the Invictus Games. Royal commentator Charlotte Griffiths added that sources close to the couple suggest Harry may be feeling wistful about that time. "We loved him then," Griffiths said. "He was seen holding African children in his arms, opening hospitals and schools, raising millions for charity."
This nostalgia for his earlier successes may explain Harry's recent focus on returning to his royal philanthropic roots. He is expected to visit the U.K. next week for the annual WellChild Awards, a cause he has long supported, while Meghan remains behind in Montecito. The decision for Meghan to skip the trip adds fuel to the speculation that the couple is increasingly taking separate paths both personally and professionally.
Their differing approaches to life after stepping back from royal duties have led some to question whether the Sussexes are still aligned in their goals. While Meghan pushes forward with her brand and independent projects, Harry seems to be reconnecting with the charitable causes that defined his royal career. Whether this represents a permanent shift or a temporary adjustment remains to be seen, but observers agree that the once-dominant narrative of the Sussexes as a unified "power couple" has significantly weakened.
Adding to this is the contrast in public perception. Harry's philanthropic work, especially with Invictus and Sentebale, still resonates deeply with audiences, while Meghan's focus on business has garnered less enthusiasm. This shift in focus has prompted questions about how the couple will manage their shared public image going forward, especially with the challenges of navigating fame and influence in the U.S.
As the couple continues to evolve, both individually and together, the question remains: Can Harry and Meghan reconcile their personal ambitions with the public's expectation of them as a power couple, or are they destined to forge separate paths in the public eye?
