A potential reality TV series featuring Prince Harry and Meghan Markle would be a disaster, according to a new opinion piece. The columnist argues that the couple's career moves since stepping down as working royals have been one failure after another, making the concept of a reality show raise the question: "Why?"
A series of missteps since stepping back
After their move to California came the Oprah interview, which the columnist found interesting enough. However, the piece claims things went downhill after their six-part self-titled Netflix docuseries, which documented their romance and exit from royal life, and which "frankly, no one asked for."
Following years in Montecito, the Duchess ventured into lifestyle and returned to screens with cooking and hosting tips on With Love, Meghan, which lasted only two instalments as viewers lost interest. With the couple back in the UK, the columnist asserts there is nothing more to learn about them, as they are "just not fascinating or intriguing anymore."
Motives and contradictions
The piece suggests a reality show would look like a desperate attempt to make more money, as the Sussexes no longer receive regular allowances from the Royal Family or the Sovereign Grant. It argues the show would be another way to fund their lifestyle, likely by mentioning working members of the Royal Family.
Drawing a parallel with Prince Harry's book Spare, the columnist notes he gained a "hefty leg-up" by criticising his family. However, a reality show would not only contradict their privacy demands but also "significantly cheapen the Monarchy's image," given that Harry remains fifth in line to the throne.
American influence and royal reception
The piece states that while traditional values would encourage the couple to keep things private, American influence would prompt them to share their home lives on a "tacky reality show," possibly through Meghan's friendship with the Kardashian family.
Regarding royal intrigue, King Charles is quoted as having previously said: "Particularly where recourse to public funds may be required, should be directed to Buckingham Palace."
The columnist concludes that a reality show from Harry and Meghan would be a "tacky embarrassment," as they are not interesting enough to keep viewers engaged, making it a major blow to any broadcaster willing to air it. It would also make the couple hypocritical, given their ongoing security row and privacy fears, while the Duchess shares glimpses of their life in the Cotswolds on social media.
The piece argues that everything about the couple—from their upbringing and romance to their wedding, children, resignation as working royals, departure from the UK, and return six years later—is already known. It concludes there is nothing left to explore, as their lives are like a soap opera and everything will eventually come out.
