Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are tipped to face one of their “biggest” challenges when they come back to Britain next week. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will spend five days in the UK for the first time in four years, to carry out engagements linked to their various charitable causes and mainly promote the one-year-to-go event for the Invictus Games in Birmingham in 2027.
Public Perception at Stake
Harry and Meghan’s bombshell return has sparked debate over public perception, as the couple's popularity has plummeted in both the UK and the US since their departure from the Firm in 2020. The Montecito couple have previously been accused of promoting their own interests instead of focusing on their charitable causes. However, a PR expert thinks that Harry and Meghan have been handed a huge “opportunity” to prove people wrong and change the narrative.
Renae Smith, founder of PR and branding agency The Atticism, told the Daily Express: “One of the biggest criticisms Harry and Meghan have faced over the years is that the focus often shifts from the cause to the couple. Whether that’s fair or unfair is almost irrelevant, because perception is what shapes reputation.” She added: “This is an opportunity to demonstrate that the cause genuinely comes first.”
Security Concerns and Family Plans
Harry and his security detail are working behind the scenes to ensure the visit can take place safely, with the duke hoping to bring his children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. The Duke was waiting for a decision from the Risk Management Board (RMB), part of the process by which the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec) rules on his security requirements, but learned on Friday that the review has yet to take place.
A spokesman for the Duke said: “The Duke continues to explore every available option to enable the visit to proceed safely and to give his children the opportunity to enjoy the UK.”
Impact of the Visit
The five-day trip marks the Sussexes' first extended stay in the UK since stepping back from royal duties in 2020. The couple's engagements will focus on their charitable work, particularly the Invictus Games, which will be held in Birmingham in 2027. The visit is seen as a critical test of their ability to rebuild their reputation and demonstrate their commitment to philanthropy over personal branding.
