Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have been at the center of public and media scrutiny since they began their relationship. While their romance initially captivated the world, the couple has faced increasing criticism from various quarters over the past few years. Understanding the reasons behind this criticism requires a deep dive into their actions, decisions, and the broader context of the British royal family and media landscape.
One of the most significant points of contention was their decision to step back from royal duties, a move colloquially termed "Megxit." In January 2020, the couple announced their intention to "carve out a progressive new role" within the institution while becoming financially independent. This unprecedented move shocked both the public and the royal establishment. Critics argued that Meghan and Harry were abandoning their responsibilities and leveraging their royal status for personal gain.
The way the announcement was made—through a personal website and social media, apparently without consulting the Queen—added fuel to the fire. This was perceived as a breach of protocol and disrespectful to the monarch. The ensuing negotiations led to their formal departure as working royals in March 2020, further estranging them from the royal family and their supporters.
Following their exit, Meghan and Harry pursued various commercial ventures, including lucrative deals with Netflix and Spotify. While they stated these moves were necessary to achieve financial independence, critics saw it as an exploitation of their royal titles for monetary gain. The multi-million dollar contracts, especially given their previous criticisms of the media, appeared hypocritical to some.
Their critics argue that these deals contradict their desire for privacy and a low-profile life. By entering the entertainment industry, they seem to be courting the very media attention they claimed to despise. The content of their productions, particularly those that delve into their personal experiences, also draws scrutiny for perceived self-promotion and victimhood narratives.
Meghan and Harry have had a contentious relationship with the media, which they often accuse of racism, harassment, and spreading falsehoods. Their ongoing battles with the British press, including multiple lawsuits, have kept them in the headlines. While many sympathize with their desire for privacy and fair treatment, others view their legal actions as overly litigious and counterproductive.
The couple’s candid interviews, especially the explosive one with Oprah Winfrey in March 2021, significantly impacted public perception. During the interview, they made serious allegations against the royal family, including claims of racism and lack of support. While the interview garnered sympathy from many, it also led to accusations of betrayal and disrespect towards the monarchy.
The strained relationships within the royal family, particularly between Harry and his brother, Prince William, have been a focal point of media coverage. The public rift has led to speculation and blame, with some perceiving Meghan as the catalyst for Harry’s estrangement from his family. The notion of a once-close relationship between the brothers deteriorating has saddened many and fueled negative sentiment towards Meghan and Harry.
Additionally, the timing of some of their statements and actions has been criticized. For instance, their Oprah interview aired while Prince Philip, Harry’s grandfather, was in the hospital. Critics deemed this insensitive and poorly timed, suggesting that it showed a lack of consideration for the family’s circumstances.
Meghan and Harry’s public statements often emphasize values such as compassion, mental health, and social justice. However, they have been accused of not always living up to these ideals. Instances of perceived hypocrisy include their use of private jets while advocating for environmental causes, and the contrast between their calls for privacy and their high-profile media appearances.
Their involvement in political and social issues has also been a point of contention. As members of the royal family, they were expected to remain politically neutral. Post-Megxit, while technically free from this constraint, their comments on political matters, particularly in the US, have sparked debate. Some see their activism as important and relevant, while others view it as inappropriate for individuals still closely associated with the British monarchy.
The media’s role in shaping public opinion about Meghan and Harry cannot be overstated. British tabloids, in particular, have been relentless in their coverage, often painting Meghan in a negative light. Racist undertones and xenophobia have marred much of the reporting, drawing criticism of the press itself. This hostile media environment has influenced public perception, contributing to the couple’s polarized image.
However, the couple's handling of the media also invites criticism. Their selective engagement with the press, favoring American outlets over British ones, and their controlled narrative through handpicked interviewers and platforms, have been perceived as manipulative. This strategic communication approach, while understandable from their perspective, is seen by some as an attempt to manage and manipulate their public image rather than being transparent and accountable.
The criticism of Meghan and Harry also reflects broader cultural and generational clashes. Their approach to royalty, which emphasizes modernity, individualism, and activism, contrasts sharply with traditional expectations of duty, discretion, and apolitical service. This divergence has led to generational divides in public opinion, with younger audiences often more sympathetic to the couple’s perspective, while older generations may view them as disruptive and disrespectful.
Meghan, as an American and a former actress, brought a different cultural background to the royal family, which some embraced as a breath of fresh air, while others saw it as incompatible with royal traditions. The couple’s outspoken stance on issues such as racial equality, mental health, and women’s rights aligns with contemporary social movements but challenges the historically conservative nature of the monarchy.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s journey from beloved royal couple to polarizing figures is multifaceted and complex. Their departure from royal duties, pursuit of commercial ventures, strained family relations, and contentious media interactions have all contributed to their criticism. The broader context of media dynamics, cultural expectations, and generational shifts further complicates their public image.
While they have garnered significant support, particularly among those who view their actions as courageous and necessary for their well-being, they have also faced substantial backlash. Understanding this criticism involves not only looking at their individual actions but also considering the intricate web of historical, cultural, and media factors that shape public perception of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.