Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are two of the most controversial public figures in the world today. Many people admire them for having the courage to break away from an oppressive institution. Others think they are traitors for leaving their positions but not their celebrity lifestyles. This dichotomy is particularly visible in the British press, which still obsesses over the couple’s saga. To understand why this is, it is useful to examine the historical relationship between the royal family and the media as well as the American perspective.
By Allan R. Ellenberger
The British royal family and the press have always had a symbiotic relationship. The newspapers use stories about the royals to sell newspapers, and the royal family wants positive stories to maintain their reputations. The royal family have traditionally kept their difficulties private and allowed the press to shape public opinion about them. In contrast, Harry and Meghan stepping back from their roles, speaking openly about their experience and attempting to manage their own narrative was a huge departure from the norm. It was a challenge to the British tabloids that had previously unfettered access and collaboration, which led to a more negative and intrusive response.
Meghan's biracial identity and American background only complicated matters further. The way she was treated involved matters of race and class that the British press have long struggled with. Differences in the way Meghan and Kate were covered were stark. When Kate proudly held her baby bump, Meghan was criticized for the same action. Kate's relaxed style was admired while Meghan's was often described as inappropriate, or even rebellious. These double standards created or reinforced generational divides in Britain. Many younger people, who were more conscious of racism and mental health, for example, picked up on these patterns, while many older Britons experienced them as assaults on tradition.
Despite the consistent negative coverage from the tabloids, public opinion in Britain on Harry and Meghan is divided. In a variety of polls, different demographics, ranging from age to geography to culture and values, appear to have their own views on the couple. Generally, young Britons tend to be more sympathetic to Meghan and view her as a victim of archaic institutions, while older Britons tend to be more supportive of the monarchy and view Harry and Meghan as having let them down. Urban Britons and those in more ethnically and culturally diverse areas, particularly in London, are also more likely to be supportive of Harry and Meghan, while those in rural communities are less so. Academics, activists and progressives have also typically been more defensive of the couple. The British public remains far more divided on the matter, even if this may not be reflected by the tabloids.
Americans have responded to Harry and Meghan in various ways. Initially, Meghan's introduction into the royal family was perceived as a "royal fairytale" by Americans, akin to a Hollywood story. However, as some of the couple's struggles became public, many Americans expressed sympathy, particularly relating to the issues of race, identity, and mental health. Nevertheless, public opinion remains divided. On one hand, their supporters view them as "people who experienced a difficult situation" and do charity or just want control over their lives. On the other hand, some—typically more conservative or cynical towards celebrity rags-to-riches stories—view them as "flip-floppers", attention-seekers, or as over-sharing about their private lives. Generally, many Americans view them as celebrity "power couples" with complex public personae, beyond their identities as former royals.
The primary cause of the schism between Britain and America lies in the fundamental dissimilarity of their values. In the former, royals are supposed to uphold the principles of duty, restraint and discretion; in the latter, the population prizes self-expression, change and the pursuit of personal happiness. As a result, Harry and Meghan are perceived as radicals and insurrectionists in Britain, for bucking a cherished tradition, and as freedom seekers in America. The same behavior – interviews, books and documentaries – is interpreted as treachery in Britain, and independence in the United States.
It's a little more complex than that. Harry and Meghan have raised awareness on important issues such as racism, mental health and the future of the monarchy, all subjects that were previously taboo. At the same time, their approach to the press can bring the spotlight on their activities even more. British tabloids have often engaged in racist, cruel and sexist coverage. The monarchy is also still slow to evolve with society. It's all true at the same time and does not necessarily negate itself.
This story keeps going because it shows bigger issues in society. It brings out changing values between generations, cultural differences between countries, and a media world that feeds on conflict. Harry and Meghan are more than just a couple who left royal life; they help both countries look at their beliefs about race, tradition, independence, and identity.
Their tale still draws attention around the world and has no clear ending. It is a modern royal tale shaped by two countries, two different media cultures, and a global audience trying to make sense of what they do.
Where do you stand on Harry and Meghan—supportive of their choices or critical of their approach? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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