Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, have shared intimate glimpses of their family life in the UK, a move that public relations experts interpret as an effort to rebrand following what they describe as a stalled attempt to gain prominence in the United States. The couple's return to Britain, after establishing a life in California, has been called "the kiss of death" for their aspirations of American stardom.
Meghan posted a montage of family clips on Instagram, which included imagery of the British autumn, a Union flag, and domestic scenes. The videos showcased activities such as splashing in puddles, enjoying fireside warmth, fishing, cycling, and country walks with their Labrador, Pula. These scenes contrasted with their previously public life in California.
PR guru Mark Borkowski suggested that the UK-based postings were a deliberate attempt to project happiness and a return to familiar roots. However, he also indicated that the move underscores a perceived lack of success in achieving their goals in the U.S. "The Harry and Meghan brand isn't dead, but it has begun to resemble a glittering palace chandelier hanging by one screw: glamorous, expensive and increasingly unwise to stand underneath," Borkowski stated.
He added that retreating from the "Californian ecosystem" could lead to momentum being lost. "Hollywood is full of British stars who discovered that being welcomed into the land of showbusiness is not the same thing as being handed the keys," he noted.
Eric Schiffer, chairman of Reputation Management Consultants, echoed this sentiment, telling Newsweek that by leaving the U.S., Meghan may have missed an opportunity for A-list status. "This is the kiss of death to stardom in America for both of them. They got beaten like a rented mule during this process," Schiffer said. He suggested that their strength might lie in philanthropy, stating, "Their strength was in giving back, and I think they were happiest when they did that."
The couple, who moved back to the UK last month, have reportedly expressed happiness about their return. However, their presence in Britain comes amid ongoing discussions regarding their security arrangements and a recent public exchange with King Charles III. The King's assertion that they are now "private citizens" led to Uganda withdrawing as a host for Prince Harry's Invictus Games, a move attributed by insiders to a letter from Charles.
Despite the familial and institutional complexities, Harry and Meghan have a schedule of public engagements. Prince Harry is expected to attend the Invictus Spirit Awards and the launch of the Invictus education program INSPIRE. He is also scheduled to participate in the WellChild Awards, a charity he has long supported. Meghan has reportedly been considering a return to charity work, including her former patronage of Smart Works, an organization supporting women seeking employment.
Meanwhile, other members of the Royal Family are also slated for public appearances. Prince William and Catherine are scheduled for a visit to the Isle of Bute, while King Charles III is set to attend a meeting on artificial intelligence. The relocation to the UK and subsequent public displays come as the couple maintains their residence in Montecito, California.