Prince Harry and Meghan Markle find themselves entangled in a web of public relations challenges, according to warnings from renowned PR expert David Yelland.
Yelland cautions that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, in their pursuit of various endeavors, risk inevitable setbacks and ultimate defeat in their ongoing battles.
The royal couple’s year began with the bombshell release of Harry’s memoir, “Spare,” in January, closely followed by the broadcast of their Netflix documentary series.
Speculation about their attendance at the King’s coronation fueled further public interest, and the release of Omid Scobie’s book, “Endgame,” once again thrust the Sussexes into the spotlight.
Adding to the mix, Prince Harry has been engaged in legal battles against media groups including Mirror Group Newspapers and Associated Newspapers over allegations of phone hacking, while he secured a victory of £140,000 in damages last week in a case against Mirror Group Newspapers.
Yelland argues that the couple’s simultaneous involvement in various pursuits diminishes their chances of success.
He warns that Prince Harry is pursuing a very high-risk, all-or-nothing strategy in seeking revenge against the press, describing it as an all-or-nothing strategy.
Yelland points out that Harry’s confrontational approach has created more enemies in the media, potentially complicating his position.
Despite the risks, Yelland acknowledges the significance of Harry’s triumph, calling it a very big victory indeed and deeming it a shameful moment for the newspaper industry.
Simon Lewis, former communications secretary to Queen Elizabeth and co-host of a Yelland podcast, views Harry’s victory as just one battle in a war.