It was a pretty miserable 2023 for the Sussexes.
The publication of Prince Harry’s memoir Spare laid bare the extent of the couple’s rift with the Royal family, exacerbating the chasm in the process, their podcast flopped, Prince Harry attended the King’s coronation on his own, his campaign for greater police protection in the UK failed, they were turfed out of Frogmore Cottage and the Omid Scobie ‘misprint’ reignited their Archie racism row. An annus horribilis by anyone’s account.
But I think there are green shoots of recovery for the couple, who still have the star power to bounce back. If Love Island celebs can make millions from simply being on reality TV, the Sussexes have ample opportunity to make a lucrative comeback.
Their Invictus appearances were a success, positioning them as relatable and human, and since then they seem to have navigated a more sincere and humble way to be philanthropic.
At the same time, the Duchess of Sussex got her glam on for various red-carpet events, showcasing her much-admired sense of style, and importantly the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO) agreed that Jeremy Clarkson’s infamous column about her was sexist and degrading. And Prince Harry won his newspaper phone-hacking case, after a protracted legal battle.
While they consider their next steps, they should enjoy the (relative) high following their victories – playing the victim card didn’t endear them to anyone.
The best thing Harry and Meghan can do is be Harry and Meghan and not an exiled version of William and Kate. They need to lean in to their high-profile connections and Hollywood lifestyle, because that’s what people want. Equally, they shouldn’t shrink from showing their vulnerabilities, but they need to understand the difference between wearing your heart on your sleeve and being a whine.
Harry and Meghan aren’t scared of a fight, as they have proven time and time again, and I wouldn’t put it past them to stage the mother of comebacks. If there is one thing the public loves, it is an underdog, and if there is one thing better than an underdog, it is two.
As the cost-of-living crisis drags on, energy costs rise and the UK teeters on the brink of recession, the soap opera antics of the Sussexes provide welcome escapism – and a bankable option for global brands. After the first big money deal is inked, the floodgates will open, whether the Buckingham Palace spin machine likes it or not.
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