2023 has undeniably been a tumultuous year for Harry and Meghan, as a series of events have cast doubt on their public image.
It all began in December 2022 with the release of their Netflix docuseries, “Harry and Meghan,” which was met with ridicule for its perceived lack of substance.
However, this initial setback did not completely tarnish their reputations at the time.
The focus then shifted to Harry’s upcoming memoir, “Spare,” which was unveiled in January 2023.
Unfortunately, the book failed to offer a balanced perspective, instead portraying Harry’s narrative as a lamentation from a privileged prince.
The subsequent interviews conducted by Harry to promote the book only worsened matters, painting him in an unfavorable light.
In contrast, Meghan took a more low-key approach, distancing herself from the spotlight and the backlash Harry was facing.
This strategic decision seemed to be aimed at separating her brand, a strategy she continued throughout the year.
Despite their self-perception, Harry and Meghan encountered numerous setbacks in 2023, leading to questions about their ability to navigate public relations and maintain a positive image.
Was 2023 the worst year for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, or could even greater challenges lie ahead?
Only time will reveal how they navigate the complexities of public perception in the future.
The narrative surrounding Harry and Meghan in 2023 revolves around challenges and setbacks, although they may not readily admit it.
The couple is facing a critical assessment of their actions and decisions.
While “Spare” became the fastest-selling non-fiction work ever, its success is debated, with the book and Harry’s interviews receiving criticism.
Alexander Larmon’s analysis in The Spectator characterizes the interviews as defensive, irritable, and unduly arrogant.
Despite the initial success of the book, the year unfolded with more difficulties.
In a court case, Harry faced challenges and, despite some calling it a victory, he and Meghan were labeled as the biggest losers in Hollywood by The Hollywood Reporter.
Additionally, a video showcasing Archwell’s endeavors over the past year became a subject of mockery, coinciding with the release of Archwell’s tax documents, which revealed financial losses.
If Harry were to write another autobiography for Penguin Random House, it is suggested that he might acknowledge 2023 as a challenging year.
Although some events could be seen as victories, the overall narrative seems to be one of struggle and public criticism for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
The scrutiny and setbacks of 2023 may prompt introspection and a reconsideration of their approach to public relations and philanthropic endeavors.
Larmon’s analysis sheds light on an interesting aspect of Harry and Meghan’s post-royal journey.
Since their quasi-abdication in early 2020, there seems to be a perception that the couple is desperately pursuing various endeavors to stay relevant and maintain their global brand status.
However, their ambitious plans often face challenges or fail to materialize as expected.
External factors, such as the pandemic, have undoubtedly impacted some of their ventures.
The anticipation of immediate success upon moving to the US was thwarted by the unexpected global crisis.
Meghan Markle, in particular, has been associated with various pursuits, from potentially creating the next Gwyneth Paltrow-like scoop to hints at returning to acting, exploring production roles, and even venturing into politics.
This pattern of diverse pursuits could be seen as a strategy to stay in the public eye and maintain a dynamic image.
However, it also raises questions about the sustainability and authenticity of their endeavors.
The constant shift in plans and pursuits may contribute to the perception that they are struggling to find a stable and successful post-royal identity.
The observation that Meghan Markle seems to be trying various pursuits without a clear passion or commitment suggests a focus on fame and financial gain rather than a genuine dedication to a specific cause or endeavor.
Regarding Harry, Larmon points out that he has deviated from the traditional royal family motto of never complain, never explain.
Instead, Harry has been vocal in both complaining and explaining his decisions, a departure from the more reserved approach traditionally associated with the royal family.
This departure may have led to public fatigue with both Harry and Meghan.
The issue of overexposure, particularly in Harry’s case, is noted, with the release of “Spare” and the docuseries contributing to a sense of saturation.
By airing family issues publicly, Harry may have unintentionally diminished the mystique and intrigue that traditionally surrounded the royal family.
This perspective suggests that Harry’s decision to share intimate details about his family may have backfired, as it removed some of the mystery and allure that historically kept people interested in the royal family.
It underscores the delicate balance between maintaining public interest and preserving a certain level of privacy and mystique.
The assessment of 2023 as a challenging year for Harry and Meghan echoes a sentiment that they faced numerous missteps and challenges.
The characterization of their endeavors as having the opposite Midas touch, with everything turning awry, emphasizes the puzzling nature of their experiences throughout the year.
The notion that it felt like a big joke, expecting a gotcha moment at the end of the year but never receiving one, adds a touch of irony to the situation.
Questions about self-awareness and an apparent lack of it are raised, with the suggestion that they might be in need of better advisors or should heed the counsel they presumably pay for.
The mention of the Netflix series and Meghan’s podcast facing criticism and being described as flops contributes to the narrative of 2023 being a challenging year for the couple.
The use of strong language, such as being labeled “effing grifters,” underscores the severity of the critiques they faced.
It emphasizes that their actions and decisions have not only been perceived as missteps but have also garnered harsh judgments from various quarters.
The initial success of the docuseries, “Harry and Meghan,” is acknowledged, but subsequent episodes shifted the perception.
The series was criticized for its apparent bias, focusing solely on Harry and Meghan’s truth without presenting a balanced perspective.
This lack of nuance may have contributed to a decline in viewer interest, with many perceiving it as a one-sided narrative.
Meghan’s podcast series is described as inert, indicating a lack of activity or energy.
The criticism suggests that the podcast primarily revolved around Meghan talking about herself and not allowing her guests to contribute meaningfully to the conversation.
The ultimate cancellation of the project by Spotify is cited as an indication of its lack of success.
The mention of being mercilessly mocked on shows like South Park, portrayed as the “dumb prince” and “stupid wife,” highlights a moment where their public image took a hit.
According to Larmon, this mockery and subsequent events have done little to restore their desired reputation.
The assertion is that the couple’s endeavors in 2023 failed to achieve the desired positive impact on their public image.
They have become subjects of satire and mockery, targeted by comedians like Chris Rock, underscoring the challenges they face in being taken seriously.
Looking ahead to 2024, Larmon notes the numerous court cases Harry is involved in.
While he may win most, if not all of them, each setback and humiliation will be eagerly reported by the international press.
The emphasis on Harry’s ongoing legal battles raises questions about the effectiveness of this strategy in improving his public image.
The characterization of Harry waging a war against the media suggests a potential dilemma.
While he may secure legal victories, the toll it takes on his public image and the ongoing adversarial relationship with the media could be counterproductive.