In recent weeks, there’s been considerable chatter around Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, especially concerning their marketing and public persona.
Once seen as a royal power couple, they now find themselves facing what some are calling a “crisis” in their branding.
An expert on public relations has laid out serious concerns about how major brands are steering clear of the Sussexes due to their increasingly “toxic” image.
Interestingly, Harry and Meghan have been making separate appearances since stepping away from their joint outings.
This shift has caught the attention of PR expert Ed Coram James.
He suggests that their recent solo ventures are more than just coincidental; they are part of a calculated move to redefine their public personas.
For both Harry and Meghan, their brand has always been a partnership—equally sharing the limelight as “the Sussexes.” However, things have changed since their explosive interview with Oprah, where they aired grievances against the royal family.
James noted that this event has driven their brand down a path that is now fraught with difficulties, making them far less appealing to potential corporate partners.
He stated, “Since the famous Oprah interview, their brand has steadily become more toxic and thus commercially untenable.” In plain terms, this means fewer major brands are eager to strike deals with them.
The collective image they present is seen as problematic in the eyes of corporate sponsors.
But what exactly does this mean for Harry and Meghan?
According to James, viewing themselves as a united front is harming their public appeal.
He believes that approaching future engagements as separate individuals could provide them with an opportunity to build distinct brands free of the negativity associated with their past together.
While experts speculate that Meghan’s critiques of the royal family may be thwarting her prospects, she hasn’t shied away entirely from the possibility of publishing a memoir detailing her royal experiences.
Royal journalist Jennie Bond stated that such a book could serve as a means for Meghan to exert some sort of “revenge” against royal insiders.
“It’s been over two years since Meghan set the world abuzz with her interview, and she has mostly navigated clear of major controversies since then,” Bond explained.
The concept of a memoir lingers, a potential resource she could leverage if she wants to push back against her critics.
Meanwhile, as Harry and Meghan continue with their separate engagements, speculation about the state of their marriage has surfaced.
Some have jumped to conclusions that this new trajectory might signal troubles in paradise.
However, this line of thinking may be misguided.
According to Ed Coram James, their independent pursuits are less about communication breakdowns at home and more about an intentional effort for rebranding.
By splitting their appearances, they can delve into areas that resonate more personally with each of them while aiming to shake off the negativity of their joint image.
Both Harry and Meghan seem to be carving out paths that allow them to flourish – independently of each other.
This separation could potentially pave the way for them to establish individual brands that are more appealing to companies eager to engage with positive personas.
So, what lies ahead for the Sussexes?
While they seem to be consciously working on their personal brands, the question remains how effectively they can shake off the shadow of their past.
As they navigate this tricky landscape, their ability to evolve and connect with audiences will be crucial in enticing major brands back into their corner.
With distinct paths beckoning, it’ll be interesting to watch how Harry and Meghan continue to redefine themselves amid ongoing scrutiny.
Can they emerge from the storm stronger and more marketable than ever?
Only time will tell.
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