‘Brand built on conflict’: Harry and Meghan have ‘no strategy’ for public relations

Key Concepts

• PR Instability (Harry & Meghan): Frequent changes in PR representation suggest a lack of clear strategy and internal chaos.
• Brand Identity (Harry & Meghan): A brand primarily focused on criticism of the Royal Family, limiting its appeal and future direction.
• Royal Family Dynamics (Charles & William): Emerging tensions between King Charles and Prince William regarding the future direction and protection of the monarchy.
• Andrew Controversy: The ongoing reputational risk posed by Prince Andrew and the desire to minimize associated negative publicity.
• Future of the Monarchy: Differing visions between Charles (traditionalist) and William (protective of the crown, progressive path).

The Sussex Brand & PR Challenges

The discussion centers around the ongoing instability surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s public image and communications. They have cycled through 11 senior communications advisors in the past five years, a statistic presented as evidence of significant internal disarray. This rapid turnover is attributed to a fundamental lack of strategy; the speakers argue Harry and Meghan haven’t clearly defined their brand identity. Are they Hollywood figures, royal critics, or philanthropists? This ambiguity makes effective PR impossible, as a consistent message is crucial for success.

As stated by one speaker, “They’ve only got one act. Their act is criticizing the British royal family at the end.” While this approach has generated income and media attention (specifically referencing the Oprah interview), it has largely alienated them from the Hollywood elite, who reportedly side with Prince William and Kate. The speakers suggest any PR effort is “on a hiding to nothing” due to the constant shifts in direction and the couple’s desire for both reinvention and control over their narrative – a combination deemed incompatible.

Royal Family Tensions: Charles vs. William

The conversation shifts to potential tensions between King Charles and Prince William, moving beyond the narrative that all friction within the Royal Family stems from Harry and Meghan. A specific example is cited: William initially opposed the inclusion of Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice in the traditional Sandringham Christmas Day walk, fearing it would draw attention to the ongoing controversy surrounding their father, Prince Andrew.

Charles, however, overruled William, asserting his authority as King. This incident is presented as a “hint at a bit of a power struggle between the heir in waiting and the king himself.” The speakers highlight a fundamental difference in their approaches: Charles is described as a “traditionalist” and more sentimental, while William prioritizes protecting the crown and is pursuing a more progressive path for the monarchy.

Protecting the Crown & The Andrew Factor

William’s reluctance to have Eugenie and Beatrice prominently featured during Christmas is framed as a proactive attempt to shield the Royal Family from the “radioactive” fallout of the Prince Andrew scandal. The speakers acknowledge that Charles’s decision ultimately didn’t backfire, but emphasize the potential for a “PR own goal” had the headlines focused on Andrew’s situation.

One speaker explicitly states alignment with William’s perspective, stating, “I actually side with William on this. I really feel for him. I think he’s trying to launch a progressive path for the royals without having the sort of Andrew factor seep in.” The ongoing need to manage the Andrew situation is underscored, with a prediction that exile – potentially to Portugal, Spain, or the UAE – would be the most effective solution. The speaker notes Andrew’s existing connections to wealthy individuals in these locations.

Differing Visions for the Future

The discussion reveals a divergence in vision for the future of the monarchy between Charles and William. Charles is characterized as a traditionalist, while William is focused on safeguarding the crown and potentially charting a more progressive course. This difference in approach is considered a “real concern” as it suggests potential for ongoing internal conflict.

Notable Quote:

“They’ve only got one act. Their act is criticizing the British royal family at the end.” – Speaker, referring to Harry and Meghan’s brand.

Technical Terms:

• PR Own Goal: A public relations misstep that damages the reputation of the subject.
• Radioactive: Used to describe a situation or person that poses a significant reputational risk.
• Sandringham Christmas Day Walk: A traditional event where the Royal Family attends church on Christmas Day at Sandringham Estate.

Conclusion

The conversation paints a picture of instability within both the Sussex brand and the broader Royal Family. Harry and Meghan’s lack of a clear strategy and reliance on criticism have hindered their PR efforts and limited their appeal. Simultaneously, emerging tensions between King Charles and Prince William, particularly regarding the handling of the Prince Andrew scandal and the future direction of the monarchy, raise concerns about internal cohesion. The differing visions of Charles and William suggest potential for ongoing conflict as they navigate the challenges of maintaining the relevance and reputation of the Royal Family in a changing world.