Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have faced criticism from PR expert Charlene Sweeney, who believes they should abandon the victim card narrative if they want to win back public opinion.

As the new year begins, all eyes are on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as they strive to turn the page on what has been a tumultuous 2023.

According to Charlene Sweeney, the Media Relations Director at Big Partnership, the past year was pretty miserable for the Sussexes.

The publication of Prince Harry’s memoir exposed the extent of the couple’s rift with the royal family, further widening the divide.

They encountered setbacks such as their faltering podcast, Prince Harry attending the King’s coronation alone, their failed campaign for greater police protection in the UK, eviction from Frogmore Cottage, and the Omid Scobie misprint reigniting the Archie racism row.

It was an “anus horribilis” for them, as Sweeney observed.

Despite these challenges, Sweeney sees signs of recovery for the couple.

She points to their successful appearances at Invictus events, which positioned them as relatable and human.

Their more sincere and humble approach to philanthropy has also been commended, marking a positive shift from their previous endeavors.

Additionally, Meghan Markle’s glamorous presence at red carpet events showcased her admired sense of style, and the couple achieved notable victories in legal battles, such as the Ipsos ruling against Jeremy Clarkson’s column and Prince Harry’s newspaper phone hacking case.

While contemplating their next steps, Sweeney advises Harry and Meghan to enjoy the relative high following their recent victories.

Playing the victim card did not endear them to the public, so it is essential for them to be true to themselves and not try to imitate an exiled version of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

Sweeney encourages the couple to leverage their high-profile connections and Hollywood lifestyle, as these elements resonate with the public.

It is important for them to acknowledge their vulnerabilities without coming across as whiny.

Striking a balance and avoiding unnecessary conflicts is key, according to Sweeney.

Harry and Meghan have never shied away from a fight, and Sweeney believes they have the potential to stage a remarkable comeback.

The PR experts who have dismissed them could be in for a surprise.

The public loves an underdog, and the prospect of two underdogs is even more appealing.

In a time of economic crises and uncertainty, the soap opera-like antics of the Sussexes provide a welcome escape.

Sweeney predicts that global brands will see their story as a bankable option, and once the first big money deal is signed, the floodgates will open, regardless of Buckingham Palace’s spin machine.

In conclusion, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are at a crossroads.

They have faced significant challenges and criticism but also achieved notable successes.

To regain public favor, they must abandon the victim card narrative and embrace their true selves.

By leveraging their connections and maintaining a balanced approach, they have the potential to stage a remarkable comeback.

In a world seeking distraction, their story remains captivating and appealing to global brands.

The future holds both challenges and opportunities for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.