Prince Harry is facing renewed scrutiny over his public image and perceived lack of direction, as royal commentators suggest he has fallen into a state of “exile” while his wife, Meghan Markle, moves forward with her growing brand empire.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams shared his perspective in a recent interview with Fox News Digital, painting a sobering picture of the Duke of Sussex’s current standing.
“[Harry] is in exile,” Fitzwilliams stated plainly. “Undoubtedly, he has some regrets,” he added, referencing Harry’s strained relationship with the royal family. “He appears to have lost touch with many of his friends and, of course, there is the royal rift.”
The remarks come at a time when Meghan Markle is enjoying notable success with her lifestyle venture, American Riviera Orchard. The brand recently celebrated a second product drop — featuring apricot jam and a Napa Valley Rosé — which sold out in record time.
“In recent months, it has been [his wife] Meghan [Markle] who has fronted things,” Fitzwilliams noted. “Her launch of lifestyle products has been backed by Netflix.” While Prince Harry has made occasional headlines for receiving honors and engaging in philanthropic efforts, the attention hasn’t always been positive.
Fitzwilliams pointed out that at one point, a petition to revoke one of Harry’s awards gathered over 76,000 signatures. “At the time, many Americans viewed the couple with disdain,” he remarked, signaling that public opinion in the U.S. has become more polarized since the couple’s move to California.
Royal historian Marlene Koenig echoed similar sentiments in a separate interview with Us Weekly. She observed that Harry’s position has shifted dramatically since stepping back from official royal duties in 2020. “He was always expected to play a supportive but not a supporting role,” Koenig explained. “He may be comfortable in his California home with his wife and two adorable children, but what he hasn’t found yet is the comfort of success outside of home.”
Koenig’s comments highlight a growing narrative among royal observers that while Meghan has managed to establish a thriving presence with business ventures and media partnerships, Harry continues to grapple with defining his own identity and purpose in their post-royal chapter. As Meghan’s brand gains traction and the royal family remains estranged, Prince Harry’s next steps could prove crucial in reshaping both his public role and personal legacy.