Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been savaged by a PR professional over the chaotic back-and-forth surrounding the Duke of Sussex's recent visit to the UK, with the expert accusing the couple of 'playing a game' and acting in a 'toxic' manner.
PR Veterans Weigh In on Royal Drama
On the podcast Where Pop Culture Meets PR, hosts and PR veterans Jacki Vause and Lyle Fulton discussed the ongoing royal saga, focusing specifically on how the Sussexes have handled their travel plans. Vause did not hold back, saying: 'I think they're playing a game now. I think they've come to the conclusion that they're damned if they do and they're damned if they don't, and they can just play around with everybody, and say one minute they're coming and the next minute they're not, and just hang everyone else to play to the beat of their own drum.'
She added: 'It's their right if they want to behave that way. But it's god damn crazy. Just tell the truth, which is something the "Harkles" have no concept of doing.'
Harry's UK Visit: A Timeline of Confusion
Prince Harry arrived in the UK earlier this week, following his defeat in a court case regarding his security arrangements. The initial plan was for the entire family—Harry, Meghan, and their children Archie, seven, and Lilibet, five—to visit the UK, but the plan was scrapped due to security concerns. Harry's invitation to stay at Buckingham Palace was eventually revoked because he failed to respond in a timely manner.
After several days of uncertainty, it was confirmed that Meghan will join her husband for a brief period in the UK, though she will not make any public appearances. It was initially reported that she would accompany him to an Invictus Games event, but Harry will now attend that event alone.
Harry's This Morning Appearance
During a surprise appearance on ITV's This Morning on Friday, Prince Harry provided an update on his family. He confirmed that Meghan and the children are expected to fly to the UK at some point this weekend, under an enhanced security plan that Harry and his team have arranged. It is believed they will spend quality family time together, with rumours suggesting they may visit Princess Diana's resting place at Althorp Estate.
Harry arrived in the UK alone on Monday after learning he would not be provided with armed police protection, which made him feel it was unsafe for his family to travel with him. The new security plan has now made it possible for Meghan and the children to join him.
