Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are taking steps toward a professional separation, with upcoming appearances that highlight their increasingly independent paths. On December 4, Meghan is set to attend a high-profile Hollywood event honoring her friend Tyler Perry, while Harry will be across the country in New York, participating in The New York Times DealBook Conference. This marks a notable shift from their past joint ventures, which Meghan once likened to being inseparable, like "salt and pepper."
Sources close to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex describe the move as a "twin-track approach," with Harry focusing on his longstanding philanthropic commitments, including the Invictus Games, and Meghan delving into entrepreneurial projects, such as her upcoming lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard. This strategic division comes as the couple faces challenges in sustaining their joint brand amid media scrutiny and fluctuating public opinion.
Ed Coram-James, a public relations and crisis management strategist, provided insights into the potential motivations behind their separate appearances. He suggested that this approach might aim to rebuild their individual reputations, which have been subjected to intense public and media criticism. "Meghan and Harry's brand has been tainted beyond repair," Coram-James told the Mirror. "The relentless media backlash, fueled by their misguided PR moves, has left them in a position where joint branding is no longer viable."
Coram-James further explained that Meghan could find renewed success by leaning into her Hollywood roots and philanthropic efforts. "She could easily tap into Hollywood again, using her acting experience, without the baggage of being a Duchess," he said. "A carefully constructed acting comeback could help her rebuild a fanbase and create a new, more positive legacy."
Harry, meanwhile, is encouraged to deepen his focus on causes that resonate strongly with the public, such as his work with veterans and conservation efforts. These commitments, exemplified by his leadership in the Invictus Games, have been integral to his identity long before the couple's royal exit.
The couple's evolving strategy also follows a joint trip to Colombia earlier this year, which was one of their last major collaborative endeavors. According to Coram-James, the dual-track strategy allows both Harry and Meghan to address their respective audiences and strengths. He suggested that "Harry's association with Meghan will always be seen as a liability in the eyes of many," underscoring the potential benefit of individual pursuits.
Meghan's upcoming project, American Riviera Orchard, is expected to launch in 2025, aiming to establish her as a significant entrepreneurial force. Meanwhile, Harry's next Invictus Games will take place in Vancouver and Whistler, Canada, reaffirming his dedication to veterans and their families.
Royal commentators have also weighed in, describing the couple's experimentation with professional independence as a necessary pivot in their public life. Richard Fitzwilliams, a royal commentator quoted in GB News, stated, "This is obviously a new tactic. The Sussexes want to promote their brand as best as they can." He noted that their previous joint ventures, including Netflix and Spotify collaborations, often attracted mixed reviews and intense scrutiny.
Despite their individual focuses, Harry and Meghan have occasionally collaborated on shared initiatives, such as a recent joint video for their Archewell Foundation addressing online safety for children. However, their current paths suggest a conscious effort to redefine their public personas and brand identities.
