Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Face Public Scrutiny as Royal Family Gathers for Sombre Event

Prince Harry and Meghan’s Separation Sparks Debate Over Their Unity as Royal Family Comes Together for Remembrance Event

November 9, 2024
By M Muzamil Shami

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are once again under public scrutiny after their decision to separate professionally, just as the royal family assembles for a significant and solemn occasion.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have struggled to make the impact they anticipated after their reunion, according to PR expert Renae Smith. Although their professional separation aimed to send a message, it has failed to create the expected "unity" between them and the royal family, especially in light of this major event.

Having stepped away from royal duties in 2020, Harry and Meghan sought to carve out a life independent from the monarchy and develop their personal brand, the Sussex brand. However, Smith believes that their separation could work out in their favor in the long run, despite the public speculation it generates in the short term.

“I believe pursuing individual brands may ultimately benefit them in the long term,” Smith explained to Express.co.uk. “While this shift may provoke a lot of public attention now, it will allow each of them to establish distinct identities that reflect their individual values and resonate more with their separate audiences.”

Smith's comments come as King Charles, Prince William, Kate Middleton, and other royal family members attend the Remembrance Sunday Cenotaph Parade to honor the fallen soldiers of World War II. This event underscores the royal family's unity, while the Sussexes' actions continue to contrast with it.

Regarding the Sussex brand, Smith emphasized that it has faced significant challenges in maintaining both its momentum and a clear identity. “Their differing personal interests have made it difficult to create a cohesive narrative for the brand,” she noted. "The decision to focus on individual brands might be the natural next step for them."

With the Sussex brand struggling to make the impact they had hoped, the PR expert concluded that this professional separation could be a turning point, ultimately benefiting Harry and Meghan as they pursue their individual paths.