Harry and Meghan 'Especially Hurt' by Latest Brutal Takedowns for Clear Reason
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been subjected to two devastating exposés this week, taking aim at their charity work and business ventures. According to royal experts, these attacks have been particularly disastrous for the couple, striking at the core of their public identity.
Dual Assault from Royal Author and Hollywood Insider
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have become the primary targets in royal author Tom Bower's new book titled Betrayal: Power, Deceit and the Fight for the Future of the Royal Family, which was serialised by The Times. The publication details numerous claims about the Sussexes' relationship with the Royal Family and their navigation of life since departing royal duties and relocating to California.
Just days after the serialisation hurled accusations including claims that Queen Camilla told a friend Harry had been 'brainwashed' by Meghan, entertainment publication Variety delivered another blow. A tell-all from Netflix insiders suggested the Sussexes' partnership with the streaming giant is in serious jeopardy.
Why These Attacks Cut Deeper
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond analysed why these particular attacks have proven so damaging. "Whatever the truth behind Tom Bower's explosive account of the continuing tensions between the Sussexes and the Windsor household, one thing is for sure: his words have hit a very raw nerve," she explained.
The royal expert noted how Bower's book specifically targets "Harry's two great passions: his wife and the Invictus Games," explaining why the couple felt compelled to issue such a blistering statement in response. "For Harry, any attack on his wife is treason and provokes a visceral response: he will defend her to the end of the earth," Bond stated.
Hollywood's Influence Proves Particularly Painful
Regarding the Variety takedown, Bond believes the article would have wounded Harry and Meghan significantly, given the publication's prestigious standing in entertainment circles. "Given that Harry and Meghan are now pretty much regarded as celebrities rather than royal, the brutal takedown by Variety will hurt," she said.
"It is, after all, Hollywood's entertainment bible and as such it carries a lot of influence. The criticism of the couple – and particularly of Meghan – appears to be gleaned from multiple sources, which does suggest there's some truth in it."
Business Implications Add to the Strain
The royal expert added that the couple would be feeling particularly deflated by these attacks, given how such damning reports could potentially harm Meghan's business ventures, including her As Ever brand which has recently separated from their Netflix deal.
"It must have been a hard read for the Sussexes," Bond commented. "I'm sure they're extremely annoyed, rather hurt and pretty fed up, but I think Meghan is a real fighter and she's doing everything she can to make her As Ever brand a success. I think she'll probably succeed."
Royal Family's Likely Response
Bond suggested that while the Royal Family probably won't pay much attention to either Bower's book or the Variety article, they might have a particular perspective if they were to notice the Sussexes' struggle to maintain their public reputation.
"I don't think the Royal Family will take much notice of Tom Bower's book or of the Variety article," she said. "I truly believe they have more to think about and deal with than Harry and Meghan's perceived popularity problem. But, if they do see the headlines, a natural reaction would be to think 'Well, you've made your bed, now lie in it'."
The Sussexes have not remained silent during this influx of accusations, issuing a scathing statement against Tom Bower's book that, according to Bond, spoke volumes about their current state of mind and the impact these critiques are having on their public standing and business endeavours.
