A brand and culture expert has said that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle need to win over Brits by using “consistency and discretion” to build trust slowly.
On Wednesday, it was revealed that The Duke and Duchess of Sussex - who haven’t been very popular since quitting royal duty in 2020 and moving to America - will be returning to life in Britain for an extended period. Reports claim that the couple and their children will move into a private residence in the UK, with the children set to begin at British schools in September. The location of their non-royal home has not been disclosed.
Expert warns against 'obvious charm offensive'
Talking to The Daily Express, brand and culture expert Nick Ede said: “If Harry and Meghan do return to live in the UK, the greatest mistake they could make would be launching an obvious charm offensive.
“The British public can spot a highly engineered PR campaign a mile away. They would need to rebuild trust slowly through their actions, rather than expecting one interview or public appearance to transform their popularity overnight.”
Different challenges for Harry and Meghan
Ede continued: “Harry will probably find it easier to reconnect because there remains enormous affection for the prince people watched grow up. Meghan faces a more difficult challenge, but not an impossible one.
“She needs opportunities for the British public to see her as warm, relaxed and engaged with ordinary people, rather than principally through glossy campaigns, carefully controlled interviews or commercial launches.
“Ultimately, they will not win everybody over, and trying too hard to do so could have the opposite effect. Their best strategy is consistency and discretion.”
Move expected at end of August
It is believed the family will make the move to Britain at the end of August. This will give Archie, seven, and Lilibet, five, time to settle before starting at their new schools. It has been reported that King Charles was informed of the news on Sunday and is pleased he will see more of the family.
