Joe Marler has revealed he was "Team Harry" after the Duke of Sussex appeared on his podcast last month, despite anticipating a social media backlash.
The former rugby star and Celebrity Traitors contestant spoke to the Mirror about the episode of Joe Marler Will See You Now, recorded during Harry's visit to the UK in July. The prince attended work commitments and a meeting with King Charles, later joined by Meghan Markle and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
Nerves and preparation
Marler admitted to feeling nervous before the recording. "We put some prep in, but it crept up on us, and I was nervous, thinking about the whole thing and also the polarising public opinion of it," he said. "Jake [Bhardwaj] just said, 'Calm down and think about what we want to achieve from having him as a guest.' I knew I liked him. I was Team Harry, if there were teams or whatever."
Having spent 17 years as a professional rugby player, Marler said he knew the interview would draw criticism. "I knew that there would be some level of backlash to whatever question or whatever answer he gave," he explained. "But I didn't want that to stop me and Jake from being genuine and in the moment."
Interview highlights
During the conversation, Harry was introduced by his full name, "Henry Charles Albert David," and when asked if he would shorten it, he replied simply: "Harry". Asked about his occupation, he responded: "Full-time dad, British Army veteran..." rather than leading with his royal title.
The discussion covered topics including fatherhood and mental health. Marler added: "I wanted him and us to be present and to have the experience. I didn't want to overthink things or not ask a particular question because of how it might be received. But the level of vitriol that comes with him, the social media backlash... What is the matter with some people?"
