- Questionable Public Relations Strategies or Inept Timing?
Prince Harry (39) and Meghan Markle (43), the Sussexes, appear to be using royal events for self-promotion or it's just bad timing, you be the judge. Regardless, it's undeniable that these rogue royals continually find themselves in the limelight, their announcements often aligned with important British royal family events, leading to unfavorable comments in Harry's native land. Let's revisit some of these timing mishaps...
Following Kate's Message on September 9
At present, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, residing in California since 2020, find themselves in the media's crosshairs once again. This time, it's after Kate Middleton's (42) heartfelt message about concluding her chemo therapy was overshadowed by the announcement of their upcoming Netflix series, "Polo." The series, produced by their company Archewell Productions and Boardwalk Pictures, was teased on Netflix's platform (previously Twitter) X hours later, on September 9, after Kate's video was released. TV personality Piers Morgan (59) pointed out with a skeptical emoji, "Posted 90 minutes after Kensington Palace released the new Kate video."
Prior to "Trooping the Colour" in June
Another unfortunate coincidence took place on June 15. Just prior to the commencement of King Charles III's (75) birthday parade, "Trooping the Colour," Meghan made headlines with two new offerings from her new lifestyle brand, "American Riviera Orchard." She had sent strawberry jam and dog treats to a close friend of her spouse. Argentine polo player Ignacio Figueras (47) then shared the products on Instagram the same day as the London parade.
Paralleling the Diana Legacy Awards in March
Their lifestyle brand also attracted criticism upon its debut in March. The date of the website and Instagram channel launch, which was allegedly meant to honor Princess Diana (1961-1997), coincided with Prince William delivering a speech at the Diana Legacy Awards in London, honoring his mother who tragically passed away at a young age.
Shortly after the Charity Video in December 2023
The first instance began with Kensington Palace releasing a charity clip of Kate packing Christmas gifts for underprivileged children with her three offspring. Only a few hours later, a summary of Meghan and Harry's charitable acts throughout the year was posted on the Archewell Foundation's official website.
After the release of Kate's heartfelt message about concluding chemo therapy in September, the announcement of the Sussexes' upcoming Netflix series "Polo" from Archewell Productions and Boardwalk Pictures overshadowed her moment, causing controversy.
During the lead-up to King Charles III's birthday parade, "Trooping the Colour," in June, Meghan's new lifestyle brand, "American Riviera Orchard," garnered unfavorable attention when she sent strawberry jam and dog treats to a friend, whose Instagram post promoting the products coincided with the London parade.
