The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been described as a global 'activist-driven brand' by a supporter, following criticism that their lucrative commercial deals clash with their charitable foundation's new findings on authenticity and profit.
Archewell's Insight Report and the 'Authenticity' Critique
This staunch defence comes in the wake of their Archewell Foundation releasing an Insight Report on November 20, which interviewed over 100 young people aged 10 to 25 from the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and Panama. The report detailed their views on growing up in the digital age, with participants expressing exhaustion with the 'performative' and 'inauthentic' nature of influencer culture. They stated that 'true leadership is not about money or followers' and desired role models motivated by causes, not profit.
Critics were quick to highlight a perceived contradiction. Since their departure from royal duties in 2020—Megxit—the couple have secured deals with Netflix and Spotify reportedly worth at least $120 million (£90m). Meghan Markle has also relaunched her Instagram to promote her Netflix projects and her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard.
The Sussex Defence: Philanthropy Through Financial Independence
A source described as sympathetic to the Sussexes launched a robust counter-argument. The insider told Newsweek that the financial independence gained since leaving the Royal Family has enabled Harry and Meghan to donate a 'disproportionate amount of their wealth' to charity compared to the 'ordinary Joe'.
'To cast all young people as though they would take umbrage with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex for making money, is just an oversimplified assessment,' the source said. They argued the couple should be viewed similarly to activist-focused companies beloved by younger generations. 'Young people love activist-driven brands and if you were to look at Harry and Meghan as an activist-driven brand, which I would argue they are, they focus on showing up, doing good,' the source stated, name-checking Ben & Jerry's and Patagonia.
The insider emphasised that generating income is a necessity, quipping, 'We all do, unless you're a member of the institution (royal family).' A spokesperson for the couple declined to comment.
Popularity and Recent Public Appearances
The ongoing debate coincides with reported declines in the couple's popularity. Their net approval rating in the UK and US is said to be as low as plus 15%, starkly contrasting with Prince William's rating of plus 72% in the UK.
Harry and Meghan were last seen together publicly just before Thanksgiving, volunteering at Our Big Kitchen Los Angeles. The Archewell Foundation shared an image of a smiling Harry wrapping his arms around Meghan with the caption 'Show up, do good'. A royal source suggested the gesture was a deliberate show of unity following recent controversies.
These included their attendance at Kris Jenner's 70th birthday, disputed claims Meghan took a dress from a photoshoot, and headlines around her Harper's Bazaar cover interview. In that feature, Meghan spoke of Harry's deep love and support, though its writer noted the Duchess was announced to a 'near-empty room' at the Beverly Hills Hotel.
The couple's charitable outing also featured their children, with a picture of Meghan holding hands with their daughter, Lilibet, aged four, included in an Instagram montage from the event.
