In 2024, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have continued to be the subject of controversy, as evidenced by the fact that their recent solo outings have raised suspicions regarding the status of their relationship.
Just two years ago, Meghan memorably compared their relationship to "salt and pepper," highlighting the fact that they are united as one. On the other hand, Marca reports that the couple's decision to pursue distinct professional paths has resulted in widespread conjecture surrounding their marriage on the internet.
In response to the accusations, Prince Harry addressed them at a recent event in New York, brushing off claims that him and his wife are having marital difficulties. His expression of pity was directed against individuals who speculate about their relationship. He stated that he felt "genuinely" sad for the trolls whose "hopes are just built and built, and it doesn't happen." In spite of the difficulties they are experiencing in their personal lives, the couple's efforts to give back to the community have been overshadowed by the scrutiny of the public.
Using his expertise in public relations and crisis management, Ed Coram-James provided guidance to the Sussexes on how they might change the narrative and recover control of their brand. In his suggestion, he recommended that they should think about returning to their old positions, with Meghan maybe returning to her acting career.
The CEO of marketing agency Go Up told the Mirror: "Meghan and Harry's brand has been tainted beyond repair. The relentless media backlash, fuelled by their misguided PR moves, has left them in a position where joint branding is no longer viable. Harry's attempts to reclaim his reputation after stepping back from royal duties are overshadowed by his relationship with Meghan, whose own controversies - be it with her family or her public opinions - have made them a lightning rod for criticism."
The recommendation that Coram-James made to Meghan was that she should concentrate on her skills in acting and philanthropy, with an emphasis on her work as a pioneer for women's rights, in order to make 2025 a successful year. He was of the opinion that a properly crafted comeback in the performing world could assist her in reestablishing a fanbase and establishing a more positive legacy, free from the restrictive narrative of the royal family.
Prince Harry, on the other hand, ought to focus on his commitments to veterans and conservation, which are fields that he has been enthusiastic about for a considerable amount of time prior to his departure from royal duties. The public responds positively to his sincerity in these roles, and he ought to develop a greater degree of independence from Meghan in his professional and public life. The toxic narratives that surround Prince Harry's marriage and royal family should be abandoned, according to Coram-James, so that he can devote his attention to causes that are important to him.
The couple is currently in the midst of a significant turning point in their respective professions, as Meghan is getting ready to launch her brand, American Rivieria Orchard, while Prince Harry is getting ready for the Invictus Games in February. Through the prioritization of important work and the reduction of public spectacle, they may be able to leave behind a legacy that will last.
Business Times has reached out to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for comments.