In a surprising turn of events, Prince Harry has found himself at the center of media scrutiny, with some of his recent endeavors drawing sharp criticism from notable figures in the industry. Tina Brown, the former editor of Vanity Fair, dismissed Harry’s ideas, leading to a wave of negative sentiment surrounding the Duke of Sussex. The backlash has been further amplified by a recent article from The Hollywood Reporter, which has seemingly turned against him.

Despite these setbacks, many might have expected a glimmer of good news for the Sussexes, particularly as we approach the end of the year. However, that optimism seems misplaced, as it appears Prince Harry is being left behind—both metaphorically and literally—by the very industry that once lauded him.

In a recent segment, the hosts discussed the peculiar fate of Prince Harry, who now finds himself ranked 25th on Harper’s Bazaar’s list of the most “gorgeous” men. This ranking comes as a surprise to many, especially considering that he is now placed behind iconic figures like Cary Grant and Steve McQueen, and even James Dean, who is often celebrated as the quintessential rebel of Hollywood’s Golden Age. The situation raises eyebrows, as it seems to diminish Harry’s standing in a competitive arena he once thrived in.

This turn of events is particularly striking given Harper’s Bazaar’s previously favorable coverage of Harry and Meghan Markle. The publication was notably the only magazine granted access during the Sussexes’ recent tour of Colombia. Their enthusiastic coverage seemed to promise a continued alliance, yet the ranking suggests a shift in perception that many fans and followers may not have anticipated.

Insiders reveal that Harry is less than pleased with his placement on the list, expressing disappointment at being rated lower than deceased legends. One possible explanation for this ranking lies in the way magazines often operate. The top spots on such lists frequently feature individuals who do not require payment for their images—this allows magazines to place them at the forefront without incurring extra costs. In contrast, positioning celebrities further down the list—like Harry—often necessitates the use of stock photos, which can be more expensive. Thus, Harry’s lower ranking might not solely reflect public opinion but could be influenced by financial considerations and editorial decisions.

The discussion around rankings brings to light the broader issues within the media landscape, including claims of manipulation in award shows and rankings. A former industry insider recounted their experiences with rigged award outcomes, noting how quick decisions were made to alter winners based on logistical challenges, highlighting the sometimes arbitrary nature of recognition within the entertainment world.

As the conversation continues, Prince Harry’s recent fall from grace serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by public figures, particularly those who step away from traditional roles and responsibilities. The combination of dwindling popularity and the negative sentiment from reputable media outlets paints a complicated picture for the Duke of Sussex. In an age where public perception is crucial, Harry must navigate these challenges carefully as he seeks to redefine his identity away from the royal family.

As the year comes to a close, it remains to be seen how Prince Harry will respond to these challenges. Will he attempt to regain favor in the eyes of the public, or will he continue down the path he has chosen, perhaps prioritizing authenticity over popularity? One thing is clear: the landscape is shifting, and Harry’s next moves will be closely scrutinized as he strives to carve out his legacy in a world that seems increasingly indifferent to his struggles.