Prince Harry and Meghan Markle: A Royal Rift in America

Since their dramatic exit from the British Royal Family, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have stirred up a whirlwind of opinions across the United States.

Niall Gardner, director of the Margaret Thatcher Center for Freedom at the Heritage Foundation, recently shared his thoughts on the couple's reception in America during an interview with GB News.

His comments highlight the complexities surrounding their transition from royal life to private citizens in California.

After tying the knot in a grand ceremony at Windsor Castle in 2018, Harry and Meghan took a significant step back from their royal duties in January 2020.

Soon after, they moved to California with their baby son, Archie, who was just five months old at the time.

This move, often referred to as “Megxit,” was portrayed by the couple as a chance to gain independence and focus on their philanthropic efforts outside the royal spotlight.

However, the warm embrace they expected upon settling in their new home has been anything but universal.

Gardner pointed out that while many Americans hold a deep admiration for the British Royal Family, particularly the late Queen Elizabeth II, that affection has not extended to Harry and Meghan.

Their ongoing critiques of the monarchy seem to clash with the respect Americans generally feel for the institution.

One of the pivotal moments in this saga was the couple's explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey in March 2021.

During this highly publicized event, Meghan disclosed several personal grievances, including a story about how her sister-in-law, Princess Kate, allegedly made her cry before the wedding.

This revelation contradicted tabloid narratives that painted Meghan as the source of family tensions.

The couple also made headlines by alleging that an unnamed royal expressed concerns about Archie's skin color before he was born, a claim that sent shockwaves around the globe.

Following the Oprah interview, Harry and Meghan continued to dominate headlines with a multi-part Netflix documentary and Harry's memoir, “Spare.”

These projects aimed to provide insight into their lives within the royal family, particularly Harry's struggles with media scrutiny and the emotional toll of losing his mother, Princess Diana.

Yet, Gardner argues that rather than garnering sympathy, their revelations have been met with skepticism from the American public.

According to Gardner, many view Harry and Meghan's criticisms as misguided, especially considering the reverence Americans have for the royal family.

He emphasized that the late Queen's dedication and dignity resonated deeply with people across the pond.

In his assessment, the Sussexes' public disputes not only tarnish the royal family's reputation but also overlook the affection many Americans hold for the monarchy.

The mixed reactions to the couple's actions reflect a broader trend in American media, where opinions on Harry and Meghan are sharply divided.

While some sympathize with their challenges and commend their advocacy for mental health and racial equality, others find their focus on grievances distasteful.

Prominent figures in television and social commentary have weighed in, creating a patchwork of support and criticism.

Their Netflix series offered a glimpse into their life in California, but critics argue it may have reinforced a narrative of grievance rather than redemption.

Harry's memoir, “Spare,” delved into his personal struggles and family dynamics, prompting questions about the appropriateness of airing such intimate details publicly.

Despite becoming one of the fastest-selling non-fiction books, its candid nature left some readers unsettled.

As the rift between Harry and his family continues to widen, the couple's absence from significant royal events, like King Charles III's coronation, has fueled speculation about their estrangement.

Reports of tension between Harry and his brother, Prince William, have also circulated, further complicating their relationship with the royal family.

Gardner's insights come at a pivotal moment for Harry and Meghan, who face challenges on multiple fronts.

After stepping back from royal duties, they initially attracted considerable media attention and lucrative deals.

However, the reception of their projects has been mixed, reflecting a complicated relationship with the American audience.

The future remains uncertain for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

Will they bridge the gap with the British royal family, or continue carving out their own path?

As they navigate this complex landscape, it's clear that public sentiment in America is split between admiration for the monarchy and skepticism toward the couple's motives.

Only time will tell how this royal saga unfolds.