Why Meghan Markle’s circle of friends seems to be shrinking, says royal expert

In recent years, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have become known worldwide not only for their fairy-tale romance but for stepping away from the British Royal Family and the unique journey they’ve undertaken since.

Their lives, filled with glamour and scrutiny, transformed dramatically when they traded their royal titles for a new, quieter life in the United States. While their story has captured the interest and imaginations of people globally, it’s been a road filled with challenges, criticisms, and the reshaping of their public image.

The couple’s departure from royal duties marked a significant shift in their lives. They left behind a world where every move, gesture, and word was scrutinized to create a new world of their own, focused on projects and initiatives close to their hearts. Meghan has launched her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchid, symbolizing her venture into personal projects and independent success.

However, along with this freedom have come countless rumors, public controversies, and ongoing speculation—especially about their marriage and Meghan’s role in Harry’s life choices. Despite a few wins, the couple has faced several setbacks, raising questions about what lies ahead for them in both their personal and public lives.

Meghan’s New Venture and Harry’s Solo Trips Spark Rumors

Meghan’s recent brand launch signifies her intention to explore new territories independently, with plans to sell home decor, kitchen items, and a line of food products. Meanwhile, Harry’s solo trips and continued work with his charitable causes have kept him in the spotlight. But their independent activities have sparked rumors about potential marital struggles.

While there’s been no official statement from the couple regarding these speculations, a source close to them shared that Meghan feels burdened by the endless chatter. Some believe that their separate endeavors are a strategy to help both of them shine in their individual pursuits.

The Image Problem: Public Perception and Criticism

Since moving to the US, the Sussexes have faced harsh criticism from both media outlets and royal experts. Many analysts argue that their brand, once celebrated as refreshing and relatable, has shifted to one that some perceive as confrontational and, at times, ungrateful. PR specialist Ed Coram James explained that while Harry and Meghan’s brand once presented them as a duo with a shared mission, ongoing conflicts and highly publicized projects have strained their image. According to Coram James, their story has “become more commercially challenging” as people are less inclined to support figures who frequently criticize institutions they once belonged to.

The suggestion from experts is that Harry and Meghan might benefit from reshaping their individual images. In doing so, they could focus on causes and values that align with them personally, without relying on the controversies tied to their departure from the royal family. The public interest in their relationship—and any potential fallout—might even fade as the focus turns to their work and contributions as individuals.

Meghan’s Response to Criticism and Royal Expert Opinions

One of the most vocal critics of Meghan’s journey from royal life to independent endeavors has been Tina Brown, a respected journalist who authored popular royal biographies. Brown recently expressed her belief that Meghan’s strategic decisions have often backfired. In her view, Meghan’s ambitious ideas, although well-intended, haven’t always resonated positively with the public or media. Brown commented that while Prince Harry has always excelled in his role as a prince, Meghan’s struggles have led her to lose support, even among former friends.

Royal historian Hugo Vickers added that Meghan’s departure from royal duties could have been successful if approached differently. Vickers noted that when Meghan first joined the royal family, she had an opportunity to champion causes and connect with people on a global scale. However, her relationships with supporters and friends have dwindled, leading some to speculate that her path to redefining herself outside the royal sphere might have been smoother with a different approach.

The Role of the Media in Shaping Meghan and Harry’s Legacy

The media’s focus on Meghan and Harry’s every move has fueled the ongoing speculation surrounding them. Recent headlines suggest Harry’s potential interest in returning to the UK, which some interpret as a desire to reconnect with his family or regain a sense of purpose. For Meghan, the media scrutiny often centers on her public image, which, according to some critics, hasn’t entirely shifted away from the controversies of her time as a working royal.

It’s worth noting that public opinion on Harry and Meghan varies widely. Their supporters commend their courage to pursue their own path and challenge an institution they believe is outdated. Meanwhile, critics argue that their grievances seem excessive, given the privileges they still enjoy. The global spotlight doesn’t appear to be dimming anytime soon, with both fans and critics paying close attention to what they’ll do next.

Meghan’s Diary and Possible Memoir: A Tool for the Future?

One intriguing revelation about Meghan came when she mentioned a personal diary kept during her time at Frogmore Cottage. According to some royal insiders, the existence of this diary could serve as a source for a potential memoir or publication. Although Meghan has shown no signs of pursuing this path, royal commentator Jennie Bond suggested that Meghan’s journal could act as a “weapon in her back pocket” if she ever chooses to share her royal experiences openly. While this would no doubt cause a stir in the media, Bond believes that Meghan is currently more focused on building her life in California than rehashing her past in the UK.

As they look ahead, Meghan and Harry’s choices will determine how the public views them in the future. Their personal projects and the legacy they wish to leave will likely continue to evolve. With Meghan exploring her entrepreneurial side and Harry pursuing humanitarian causes, they may succeed in crafting new individual identities that highlight their talents and passions without the weight of their past controversies.

What are your thoughts on Harry and Meghan’s journey and the challenges they face in their new life? Do you think their decisions will pay off in the long run, or will public opinion continue to shape their legacy? Share your perspective in the comments below, and let’s keep this conversation going.