Kaylah Walton
Prince Harry was once cherished by the British public and global audiences alike. Yet, after stepping away from royal duties and openly criticizing the monarchy, his public persona has changed drastically, resulting in a significant decline in his reputation.
Back in October 2019, Prince Harry enjoyed considerable approval, with 71% of Britons holding a favorable view of him, while only 22% disapproved. Fast forward to August 2023, and the numbers reveal a troubling trend: just 30% of the public now have a positive opinion of him, with 60% disapproving, as highlighted by Statista.
This notable decline can largely be linked to significant events, such as his candid interview with Oprah in 2021, a Netflix docuseries released in 2022, and his controversial memoir Spare from 2023. Each of these projects brought to light critical issues regarding his family and the royal establishment, thus igniting further dissatisfaction among the British public.
While Harry faces challenges in the UK, he still maintains a somewhat favorable standing in the United States, where 53% of Americans reportedly view him positively, according to YouGov.
Shifting Perceptions
Nonetheless, this support may be dwindling. Ingrid Seward, the editor-in-chief of Majesty magazine, expressed that there’s a growing sentiment among Americans who disapprove of Harry and Meghan, with many considering their actions a slight against the late Queen.
Insiders indicate a growing indifference towards the couple, with royal commentator Kinsey Schofield noting that many have lost interest, realizing they may have mistakenly placed them on a pedestal.
Their celebrity status has shifted from admiration to apathy.
In an effort to enhance their public image, Harry and Meghan seem to be trying a new public relations approach. Recently, they have been attending functions separately, prompting speculation about a possible “professional separation.”
While Harry focuses on philanthropy, Meghan appears to be more engaged with their business interests.
Despite swirling rumors, Harry has humorously dismissed the notion of their potential separation, referencing the many times similar stories have circulated in the past.
