Harry and Meghan
Pic: Getty

Harry and Meghan Snubbed as William and Kate Steal Global Spotlight with Major Honor

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have reportedly been left disappointed after being excluded from Time magazine’s prestigious 2025 Time 100 Philanthropy list—an honour awarded instead to Prince William and Princess Kate for their forward-thinking approach to charitable work.

The Prince and Princess of Wales were recognised in the Innovators category, with Time praising the couple for “modernising royal philanthropy” and shifting the focus from “cultural preservation” to tackling today’s pressing social issues. In stark contrast, Harry and Meghan, who featured on the Time 100 list back in 2021 and were once hailed as influential philanthropic figures, failed to make the cut this year.

Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond weighed in on the omission, suggesting the Sussexes would have taken the snub to heart. “I’m sure Harry and Meghan will be disappointed that they haven’t made the list, especially as they have emphasised their focus on philanthropy on their website,” she told the Mirror. “I wish them well with the work they do, but now, firmly outside the royal family, they simply do not pack the same punch as the Prince and Princess.”

Harry and Meghan, who stepped down from royal duties in 2020 to pursue private ventures in the United States, have branded themselves as “shaping the future through business and philanthropy.” Despite high-profile partnerships and charitable initiatives, they were notably absent from this year’s Time accolade.

Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton
Chris Jackson/WPA Images/Getty Images

Meanwhile, William and Kate’s recognition comes as they launch an ambitious initiative through the Royal Foundation to transform community spaces across the UK. Their project, which includes financial grants and personal engagement, aims to revitalise local facilities—from community hubs to sports centres—by collaborating with businesses and expert task forces. More details are expected in the coming months.

Bond highlighted the growing influence of the Waleses, noting, “There’s no denying that William and Catherine carry a lot of clout in whatever field they choose to get involved. They have each made a significant impact in trying to help solve crucial social issues.” She continued: “Their brand of royal patronage is less about elitist cultural preservation and more, as William himself has said, about ‘impact philanthropy, collaboration, convening, and helping people.’”

Alongside global figures such as Oprah Winfrey, David Beckham, and Melinda French Gates, William and Kate’s inclusion in the Time 100 list underscores their evolving roles as modern royals committed to long-term, results-driven change. In contrast, Harry and Meghan’s absence signals a shift in public and institutional recognition, as their efforts outside the royal establishment continue to face mixed reactions.

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