**Veteran BBC Reporter Nicholas Wichel Criticizes Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in Scathing Retirement Remarks**

Nicholas Wichel, a seasoned journalist with a 48-year career, has unleashed a scathing critique of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as he prepares to retire from his role as a BBC reporter.

His final days at New Broadcasting House were marked by reflections on his long tenure, particularly his coverage of the royal family during the past 25 years, including the annual Christmas broadcasts from Sandringham.

Now freed from the constraints of traditional reporting, Wichel is candid about his views on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, acknowledging the unavoidable presence of their tumultuous narrative in the media landscape.

In a recent article for the Sunday Times, Wichel acknowledged the soap opera-like elements that have characterized royal coverage over the years, noting the public's enduring fascination with scandals and gossip.

While he admits discomfort with this aspect of journalism, he recognizes its significance within the broader context of reporting on the monarchy.

Having joined the BBC as a trainee in 1976, Wichel's career has been defined by his meticulous reporting on royal events, honing his on-camera presence and storytelling skills over decades of dedicated work.

One notable incident that stands out in Wichel's career is his live coverage outside Buckingham Palace announcing the birth of baby Archie in May 2019.

Struggling to find the right words, he unexpectedly handed back to the studio, prompting speculation about his well-being and competence.

Reflecting on this moment, Wichel candidly shared his inner turmoil, attributing his lapse to a lack of genuine interest in the royal couple.

He described it as his “single worst moment in 48 years,” revealing the personal toll of struggling to convey positivity about Harry and Meghan.

Despite receiving support from viewers and fellow performers who empathized with his on-air mishap, Wichel admits that the incident shook his confidence profoundly.

The unconventional nature of Archie's birth, shrouded in secrecy and devoid of traditional royal protocols, further underscored the challenges faced by journalists covering the Sussexes.

Wichel's assertion that the palace was ill-prepared to manage the couple's unorthodox approach to royal traditions hints at underlying tensions that have simmered within the monarchy.

Moreover, Wichel's criticisms extend beyond the handling of Archie's birth, delving into the broader issues surrounding Meghan and Harry's integration into the royal family.

He contends that the palace's concessions to the couple's demands for titles, patronages, and financial independence ultimately backfired, leading to a rift that has strained the institution's reputation.

Implicit in his remarks is a call for greater scrutiny of the monarchy's decisions regarding the Sussexes, urging a reevaluation of the protocols governing royal engagements and public relations.

As Wichel bids farewell to his storied career in journalism, his candid reflections offer a glimpse into the complexities of royal reporting and the personal challenges faced by those tasked with interpreting the monarchy's evolving narrative.

His parting shot at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between journalistic integrity and public intrigue, highlighting the enduring impact of their tumultuous relationship on the British royal family's image.