A royal expert has weighed in on the challenges facing Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as they allegedly struggle to rebuild their Sussex brand. The advice? Take a step back from joint appearances.
Speaking to The Mirror, PR specialist Ed Coram-James claimed that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex should consider shifting their approach, stating, “Meghan and Harry’s brand has been tainted beyond repair.” He explained that the couple’s joint branding efforts have been undermined by persistent media backlash and missteps in public relations.
“The relentless media backlash, fuelled by their misguided PR moves, has left them in a position where joint branding is no longer viable,” Coram-James noted. The couple has recently made more solo appearances, signaling a potential change in strategy. Prince Harry is slated to participate in The New York Times DealBook Conference on December 4th, while Meghan Markle will attend the 2024 Paley Honors Fall Gala on the same day.
Coram-James emphasized that Harry’s attempts to regain his reputation after stepping back from royal duties are complicated by his association with Meghan, whose public controversies often overshadow their collective efforts. “Harry’s attempts to reclaim his reputation 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,” he said.
To revive their individual and collective prospects, Coram-James suggested a radical yet pragmatic approach for 2025. “Harry and Meghan should focus on what they do best and take a break from their joint projects,” the expert advised.
This recommendation comes amid increasing scrutiny of the Sussexes’ media strategies. Some commentators believe that separate appearances could help them redefine their public images and distance themselves from shared controversies.
Despite the challenges, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle continue to draw attention and remain influential figures on the global stage. Their ability to adapt and evolve could determine the future trajectory of their brand and public perception.
As they navigate this pivotal moment, the couple may find that pursuing individual projects could be the key to rejuvenating their reputations and rebuilding their once-prominent Sussex brand.
