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Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Booed at National Television Awards
At last night's National Television Awards, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle faced a wave of boos as a clip from their controversial Oprah Winfrey interview was aired.
The moment unfolded after Sir Trevor McDonald introduced a montage showcasing the year's most memorable TV moments, including scenes from the royal couple's infamous sit-down with Oprah.
While the booing did not make it to the ITV Live broadcast, attendees disclosed that the audience erupted in jeers and disapproval once the Duke and Duchess of Sussex appeared on screen.
According to a source present at the event, Meghan and Harry were featured in a montage of significant TV moments from the past year, triggering an immediate chorus of boos echoing throughout the arena.
The reaction painted them as almost like characters from a pantomime villain.
The annual event held at London's O2 Arena is a highlight in the showbiz calendar, drawing some of Britain's top celebrities, indicating that even among the elite, the Sussexes' standing has taken a hit.
A second insider, a celebrity who opted for anonymity, recounted that when Meghan's clip aired, the audience voiced their disapproval with boos and shouting.
Laughter could be heard, alongside a few uncomfortable expressions, signaling that Meghan did not receive a warm reception that evening.
The couple's groundbreaking two-and-a-half-hour interview with Oprah in March garnered a global audience of over 17 million, during which they made explosive claims against the royal family.
In the interview, the couple accused a member of the royal family of racism, alleging that concerns were raised about the potential skin tone of their son.
They also spoke about facing discrimination and lack of support, with Harry revealing strained relations within his own family.
Meghan accused Kate Middleton of making her cry, claimed senior royals plotted against their son Archie, and criticized the palace for not defending them against racist remarks.
The interview sparked controversy, with fact-checkers highlighting inaccuracies and criticism directed at Oprah for not challenging the couple's assertions.
Piers Morgan was among those who openly questioned Meghan's claims, leading to a barrage of complaints to Ofcom.
The UK's broadcasting regulator eventually cleared him of any wrongdoing, emphasizing the importance of free speech.
The fallout from the interview has significantly impacted the popularity of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, with public opinion of the couple plummeting in recent months.
Former royal editor Duncan Larcombe remarked on the drastic decline in the couple's favorability, noting the challenges they now face given their strained relations with the royal family.
YouGov attributed the drop in popularity to the couple's handling of various issues, including their statements on the COVID-19 pandemic and the Afghanistan crisis.
The Sussexes' decision to step back from royal duties, coupled with their subsequent revelations and lucrative deals, have stirred mixed reactions among the public.
Despite their Emmy nomination for the Oprah interview, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex continue to navigate a tumultuous path, balancing public scrutiny and personal aspirations.
As they forge ahead with their new life in the United States, the pressure mounts for them to succeed and carve out a distinct identity separate from the royal institution.
Amid ongoing controversies and divided opinions, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle find themselves at a critical juncture, where every move is scrutinized and every decision carries weight in shaping their future.