Prince Harry and Meghan Markle found themselves at the center of attention as they bid farewell to 2023, a year marked by challenges and setbacks in their Hollywood endeavors. Faced with the loss of lucrative Spotify and Netflix deals, coupled with an unfavorable ruling in the UK security case, the couple earned the dubious title of “Hollywood’s biggest losers” by The Hollywood Reporter.
PR expert Charlene Sweeney weighed in on the tumultuous year for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, pointing to Prince Harry’s memoir, “Spare,” as a revelation of the deepening rift within the Royal Family. The year unfolded as a series of disappointments, with podcast struggles, solo appearances at royal events, failed campaigns, eviction from Frogmore Cottage, and renewed controversies surrounding Archie’s racism row.
Despite the challenges, Sweeney identified “green shoots of recovery” in the couple’s successful hosting of the Invictus Games and their steadfast commitment to philanthropy. As the couple enters 2024, Sweeney acknowledges that while there have been setbacks, there are also opportunities for resurgence.
Sweeney offered valuable advice to the couple, urging them to embrace their victories and cautioning against the consistent use of the “victim card.” She emphasized the importance of being authentic, urging Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to be themselves rather than attempting to emulate an exiled version of other royal figures.
Highlighting the couple’s resilience, Sweeney hinted at the potential for a significant comeback. Despite negative perceptions, she noted that the public often rallies behind underdogs, and Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s ability to authentically present themselves could lead to a surprising turn of events.
In the midst of economic challenges, Sweeney pointed out that the soap opera aspects of the Sussexes’ lives offer a welcome distraction for the public. She argued that their narrative provides a respite during challenging times, offering an escape during cost-of-living crises and energy cost concerns.
Sweeney concluded by asserting that, following the inkling of a significant deal, the couple could see a surge in opportunities. Despite potential skepticism from Buckingham Palace, she believes that the public’s fascination with the Sussexes’ story may play a pivotal role in their future success.
As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle chart their course into 2024, the spotlight remains firmly on their ability to overcome adversity, redefine their narrative, and potentially stage a remarkable comeback in the eyes of the public.