Meghan Markle's upcoming trip to the UK next week will not be about winning back the British public, a PR expert has warned. The Duchess of Sussex is returning to Britain for the first time in four years to support Prince Harry at the one-year-to-go event for the Invictus Games in Birmingham.
Meghan's Popularity in the UK
Since stepping down from royal duties in 2020, Meghan's popularity in the UK has plummeted. She consistently ranks low in polls, often coming just above Prince Andrew. The visit has sparked debate about whether she might attempt to improve her image among the British public.
PR Expert's Advice
Renae Smith, founder of The Atticism, told the Daily Express: "I don't think this is about 'winning Britain back.' I don't believe Meghan is trying to become universally liked anymore. I think she's accepted that she's a polarising figure and has built her brand around the audience that already supports her. That's actually a perfectly rational branding strategy."
However, Smith cautioned Meghan not to forget "whose stage this is" and to let her husband take the spotlight. "The only thing I would caution against is forgetting whose stage this is. Invictus belongs to Harry. The veterans belong to Harry. This isn't the moment for lifestyle branding, personal messaging or creating viral moments. It's the moment to be a supportive partner. If she does that, I'd consider the trip a PR success."
Smith added: "If she can't resist becoming part of the story, then we'll probably be having exactly the same conversation again next week."
Context of the Visit
Prince Harry and Meghan will promote the Invictus Games, an international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women. The games are set to take place in Birmingham in 2027.
