Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have reached a critical juncture following their two-day humanitarian trip to Jordan, according to royal experts. The couple visited a refugee camp, a hospital, and a rehabilitation centre, but coverage was notably subdued compared to their previous tours to Colombia, Nigeria, and Jamaica.
Public interest in the Sussexes appears to be declining in the UK. Recent YouGov polls show only 19% of Britons have a positive view of Meghan, her lowest score yet, while Harry stands at 31%. In contrast, Prince William remains the most popular royal at 77%.
PR expert Mayah Riaz told the Mirror that the couple face a 'crossroads' as they lack the institutional backing of the monarchy. 'Without that framework, they are competing in a very crowded celebrity marketplace,' she said. 'Relevance today is about consistency, credibility and connection.'
Financially, the couple remain secure thanks to Meghan's Netflix series and her lifestyle brand As Ever, which sells items like raspberry spread and shortbread cookies. However, critics question whether the focus on lifestyle branding aligns with their original narrative of service and philanthropy.
Privacy has also become a contentious issue. Meghan faced accusations of hypocrisy after sharing a Valentine's Day photo showing the side of daughter Lilibet's face, despite Harry's demands for increased family privacy. Royal author Ingrid Seward suggested the couple may have had 'fiery rows' over the topic, noting they have 'completely ignored' their earlier stance.
