Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are facing their “biggest conflict” yet as they appear to be heading down different career paths, a PR expert has claimed.
Since Prince Harry celebrated his 40th birthday last month, he has been spotted making solo visits to New York, England and Africa. Meanwhile, Meghan is staying at her home in Montecito with her two children, and even spent the night without Prince Harry at a red carpet event.
That’s because they’ve spent years building a “distinctive brand” as a duo. PR expert Ed Corum-James told the Mirror the couple had spent considerable time portraying themselves as “Harry and Meghan” or “Mr and Mrs Sussex”.
But Meghan has since moved into the lifestyle market, launching her own brand, American Riviera Orchard, and an obscure Netflix cooking show, and Prince Harry continues his philanthropic work.
PR Week’s public relations guru John Harrington believes the separation provides a “confused” message. Speaking in the Channel 5 documentary ‘Harry and Meghan going their separate ways?’, he said:
“I don’t really know if they’ll be able to unload the baggage they’re carrying and move forward with their lifestyle influencer side, but when it comes to public relations, that’s the single biggest challenge for them. There is no doubt that it is.”
Prince Harry is thought to have signed a deal to publish four books leading up to the release of Spare in 2021. That means Duke still has three more books scheduled to be published, as well as a Netflix series, including one about polo.
Vanity Fair royal correspondent Katie Nicholl added: The deal with Netflix will only last as long as they come up with content. ”
Nicholl said Prince Harry is “at his best” when taking part in charity events and promoting causes close to his heart. She said: “Harry is often at his best when we see him alone.
“He’s working on projects that he’s passionate about, doing work that he truly loves, and reminds us of the old Prince Harry that so many people really miss.”
However, branding expert Nick Ehde believes Meghan is “returning to her roots” as she ran lifestyle blog The Tig before joining the royal family. “I hope it’s good for her because it makes people want to be a part of her life,” he added.
Will Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan go their separate ways? It will be broadcast on Channel 5 tonight at 9.10pm.
