The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have often faced public criticism, and recently, they were featured in The Hollywood Reporter’s annual “winners and losers” list for 2023, unfortunately on the less favorable side. The publication reflected on their departure from royal duties in 2020 for a life in the U.S., critiquing their Netflix documentary, Prince Harry’s memoir ‘Spare’, and their podcast as self-righteous endeavors. The magazine also mentioned the satirical treatment of the couple in an episode of “South Park.”
This development marks a challenging conclusion to a year that initially seemed promising for Prince Harry and Meghan. Early in 2023, following their Netflix documentary, there was anticipation around Prince Harry’s memoir and its potential impact on the monarchy. At that time, there were discussions within their circles about moving on from their past grievances in the U.K. and starting anew in America. The Invictus Games were scheduled, and their deals with Netflix and Spotify were active, with the couple even receiving recognition for their work in racial justice and mental health.
However, as 2023 progressed, expectations shifted. The Spotify deal was terminated, their Netflix projects lost momentum, and donations to their Archewell Foundation significantly decreased. Bill Simmons from Spotify publicly criticized the couple, and they faced scrutiny over an alleged paparazzi car chase in New York. An incident involving them entering an awards show through a rental car office led to unflattering social media nicknames. Their portrayal in “South Park” also seemed to resonate strongly with the American audience. Even the Invictus Games, a significant project of Prince Harry, faced setbacks with the departure of two executives.
Meghan’s return to the showbiz circuit, as seen in her appearance at Variety magazine’s Power of Women event, raised questions about the couple’s original intentions for leaving royal life. The prospect of reconciliation with the Royal family appeared briefly, with rumors of them joining the Royal Christmas at Sandringham, but no invitation materialized.
The publication of Omid Scobie’s biography, “Endgame,” which was sympathetic to the Sussexes but heavily criticized the Royal family, further complicated their public image. The book’s portrayal of the Royal family, particularly Prince William and the Princess of Wales, and the King, coupled with the public’s perception of the Sussexes’ involvement with the book, impacted their credibility.
Experts believe that the couple’s narrative is losing its impact, and their strained relationship with the Royal family, especially between Princes William and Harry, seems irreparable. Following the Hollywood Reporter’s assessment, Forbes described the Sussexes as a case study in brand failure, advising readers to avoid their branding strategy.
The Sussexes, meanwhile, are reportedly not focusing on the negative media attention but are working on new projects, including a possible television adaptation of the novel “Meet Me at the Lake” and other scripted content. Meghan has hinted at projects that will evoke emotions in the audience. There’s also speculation about a new venture similar to Meghan’s former lifestyle blog, “The Tig.”
Prince Harry recently won a legal victory against Mirror Newspaper Groups, boosting his confidence in his ongoing battle against the British tabloid press. The Sussexes are said to be undergoing a “total system reboot,” shifting their focus and approach. Despite the criticisms, they continue to be one of the world’s most read-about celebrities.
Now, free from the constraints of royal protocol and the British press, the Sussexes face the challenge of standing on their own and proving their worth outside the Royal institution.
