ITV's This Morning presenter Josie Gibson has delivered a blunt assessment of the challenges Meghan, Duchess of Sussex would face if she were to return to the UK, stating she would need a 'thick skin' to withstand the inevitable media firestorm.
Gibson's comments come amidst ongoing speculation about whether Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will attend events in Britain this year, particularly the potential invitation to the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games.
A Candid Take on Public Scrutiny
Speaking with her trademark Bristolian candour, Gibson didn't shy away from the topic. She acknowledged the intense, and often divisive, public opinion that surrounds the Duchess. "If she does come back, she's going to need a very, very thick skin," Gibson stated, highlighting the unforgiving nature of the British press and public discourse.
Her insights point to a reality where every move Meghan makes on British soil would be analysed, criticised, and splashed across front pages, a level of scrutiny that requires immense mental fortitude.
Contrasting Opinions and Media Backlash
Gibson also touched upon the starkly different reactions Meghan evokes compared to other public figures. She referenced the notorious newspaper columns by Piers Morgan and Jeremy Clarkson, which sparked widespread outrage and record complaints to the IPSO press regulator.
This context underscores Gibson's point: the media landscape Meghan would be re-entering is one where polarising commentary generates significant attention, often at the expense of the subject's wellbeing.
The Unwritten Rules of Royalty
The discussion ultimately delves into the unwritten contract between the Royal Family and the media. Gibson's verdict implies that stepping back from royal duties but returning for high-profile events creates a complex dynamic, one that the press is quick to dissect.
Her analysis serves as a sobering reminder of the pressures of life in the spotlight, suggesting that any return would be far from a simple homecoming and would instead be a trial by media.
