Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s choice to concentrate on their individual endeavors in the public eye has been described as a “smart move” by a royal expert.
Since stepping back from the Royal Family in 2020, the couple’s public image has suffered due to a series of controversial actions taken after relocating to America. These included revealing private family moments in televised interviews and their 2022 Netflix docuseries.
Harry, now 40, faced further scrutiny following the release of his memoir Spare last year, which not only damaged his public image but also strained his relationship with his older brother, Prince William, 42.
For most of this year, Harry and Meghan have stayed out of the spotlight, residing in their Montecito mansion. However, recent months have seen a shift in their approach, as they have begun focusing on their respective projects and attending events separately.
Royal commentator Gareth Russell explained to GB News that this strategy reflects a well-thought-out plan by the couple, who are now often seen attending events individually.
Speaking to GB News, Gareth said: “Anything that avoids the kind of interviews they’ve done previously is a positive step, particularly focusing on separate activities. Avoiding controversy and steering clear of repeating past behaviors is undoubtedly a smart move.”
Although the pair are pursuing their individual work, they are expected to continue collaborating on joint engagements, particularly those connected to causes they support together, including their Archewell Foundation’s charitable initiatives.
Meghan Markle at a red carpet event, 2024
Meghan has recently been seen attending red carpet events without Harry accompanying her (Image: ETIENNE LAURENT/AFP via Getty Images).
This praise for their new direction comes as the couple celebrated another Christmas in California with their children, Prince Archie, five, and Princess Lilibet, three.
This marks Harry’s sixth Christmas away from his royal family. Reports suggest the prince was not invited to join celebrations at Sandringham this year.
Harry’s most recent trip to the UK was in late September for the WellChild Awards 2024. During that visit, he did not reconnect with any members of the Royal Family, including his father, King Charles, despite their reportedly improved relationship.
However, Harry, 40, remains distant from Prince William, with reports indicating the two brothers have not had a meaningful conversation in over a year.
