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Roasted: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Time 100 Cover Sparks Twitter Backlash
Twitter users have taken to roasting Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's recent Time 100 cover, likening their poses to scenes from a popular comedy film.
Released by the magazine on Wednesday, the cover features the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who were honored as some of this year's most influential individuals.
The couple was praised for their empathy towards strangers and their willingness to confront criticism from the public and media head-on.
Despite these commendations, the pair found themselves once again at the receiving end of online trolling, with their cover shot drawing comparisons to comedic movie posters and everyday situations.
Questions arose among Twitter users regarding the approval of the cover shot, with some pondering whether Prince Harry was standing, sitting, or simply leaning on Meghan's shoulder for support.
Criticism escalated as users expressed disbelief at the portrayal of the couple, questioning why such attractive individuals were depicted in such a manner.
One user humorously remarked, “It's like he's cowering behind her,” while another drew parallels between the cover image and the poster for the 2008 comedy “Step Brothers,” featuring actors Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly.
The post was captioned with a witty observation, adding to the online frenzy surrounding the royal couple's latest appearance.
Conservative TV host Candace Owen also joined the chorus of critics, taking to Twitter to lambast the Time magazine cover and labeling Prince Harry as “emasculated” and “pathetic.”
In a scathing tweet, she expressed her disapproval of the couple's portrayal, emphasizing her disdain for what she perceived as a diminishing of Harry's masculinity on a global platform.
The contentious remarks from Owen added fuel to the already heated discussion surrounding the royal pair's public image.
Adding to the controversy, fans speculated that Prince Harry's bald spot had been digitally altered in the glamorous Time magazine cover shoot featuring him and Meghan Markle.
As the couple posed for the prestigious publication's list of top 100 most influential people, observers noted discrepancies in Harry's hair density compared to his usual appearance.
Social media users jokingly questioned whether Harry had undergone hair treatments or if the images had been excessively airbrushed, highlighting the scrutiny faced by public figures in the age of digital manipulation.
Renowned royal expert Angela Levin weighed in on the debate, noting the apparent enhancement of Harry's hair in the photographs, which depicted the Duke and Duchess at their lavish California residence.
The images captured by photographer Per Adukovic showcased the couple in various settings, with Meghan clad in white and Harry in black against a backdrop of trees.
Despite the couple's attempts to present a polished image, critics pointed out flaws in the retouching of the photos, prompting mixed reactions from online spectators.
Criticism of the couple's Time 100 cover extended beyond the realm of aesthetics, with some viewers questioning the authenticity and dynamics portrayed in the images.
While supporters expressed pride in Harry and Meghan's recognition, others voiced concerns over the perceived artificiality of the photoshoot.
Observations ranged from accusations of excessive photoshopping to reflections on power dynamics within the couple's public persona, underscoring the multifaceted reactions elicited by their magazine feature.
In a brief article penned by chef Jose Andres in the magazine, the couple shared their humility at being included in the prestigious list, emphasizing their gratitude for the recognition.
Despite the mixed reception to their Time 100 cover, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle continue to navigate the complexities of public scrutiny with grace and resilience.
As discussions around their portrayal persist, the royal pair remains steadfast in their commitment to making a positive impact on society, undeterred by the ebb and flow of public opinion.