Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's appearance at a high-profile New York charity gala has sparked fresh scrutiny of the couple's public dynamic after the Duchess reportedly imposed new rules on her husband following an awkward red-carpet moment.
According to multiple sources cited by RadarOnline.com, Meghan was left "mortified" after Harry playfully patted her backside at the Project Healthy Minds World Mental Health Day Gala, where the pair were honored as Humanitarians of the Year for their philanthropic work through the Archewell Foundation. Cameras caught the moment as the Duke and Duchess arrived, and the clip quickly circulated online, spawning social media memes and debate about decorum.
"Meghan was absolutely humiliated," a source close to the couple told RadarOnline.com. "She's very conscious of how every detail is picked apart, and that moment made her feel like a spectacle. She told Harry afterward that there's a time and place for affection - and the red carpet isn't it. She's made it clear that public displays like that are off-limits from now on."
The 44-year-old Duchess, who has been working to establish her post-royal image as a media entrepreneur and philanthropist, reportedly felt the gesture undermined the carefully choreographed professionalism of the evening. "Meghan puts a lot of effort into how they're perceived at these events," another insider said. "Everything from the styling to the speeches is planned with precision. So when Harry did that, she felt it undermined all the professionalism she was trying to project."
Observers noted that Markle appeared to subtly move Harry's hand higher up her back and whisper something to him before both smiled for photographers. The couple, married for seven years, maintained a more formal demeanor when they later took the stage to accept their award.
"She told friends she loves Harry's spontaneity but that he needs to read the room," a friend of the couple said. "She doesn't want to embarrass him, but she also won't have him turning a serious occasion into tabloid fodder."
Behind the scenes, the episode has reportedly prompted Meghan to assert greater control over how the pair appear in public. A source familiar with the Sussexes' team said, "There's been a real effort to polish their public image and keep things measured. Meghan's laid down some ground rules - she's fine with affection, but not when it risks becoming the headline. Harry means well, but she's determined to keep things professional, especially when cameras are rolling."
At the event, Harry wore a classic black suit while Meghan opted for a minimalist Armani ensemble paired with gold jewelry - a look praised for its restraint and elegance. Still, insiders say the incident underscored ongoing tension between the couple's relaxed California persona and the expectations surrounding their royal stature.
"Meghan is ultra-protective of their reputation," one insider said. "After the charity gala, she made it crystal clear - no more hands on her butt when the world can see."
