In a recent interview with CBS’s Jane Polly, Meghan Markle opened up about the challenges she faces regarding digital harassment, particularly her desire to protect her children from similar experiences.
However, her revelations have sparked skepticism, largely due to her ties with a controversial social media figure.
Reports suggest that Meghan and her husband, Prince Harry, are under fire for their association with Christopher Bussey, a tech entrepreneur known for his aggressive online behavior.
Bussey, the founder of Bot Sentinel—a social media analytics company—has been accused of promoting conspiracy theories and making disparaging remarks about Kate Middleton, particularly in light of her recent health issues.
Following an announcement from Buckingham Palace, he quickly disputed its claims, insinuating that the images and videos of the Princess were part of a cover-up.
This back-and-forth has only fueled the flames of controversy surrounding the Sussexes.
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams has criticized Meghan and Harry for their connection to Bussey, arguing that it undermines their stated mission of protecting children from cyberbullying and online threats.
Fitzwilliams believes that if the couple genuinely wants to lead by example, they should distance themselves from individuals who engage in such harmful conduct.
The timing of this controversy is particularly troubling as it follows Meghan’s candid sharing of her struggles as a royal during her interview.
She hinted at the possibility of exploring her experiences further, yet her choice to feature Bussey in their Netflix documentary has left many baffled.
Critics now speculate whether Meghan might be using him as a tool to intimidate Catherine, the Princess of Wales.
This situation has drawn heightened scrutiny, especially given Bussey’s history of personal attacks on the royal family.
He has made unflattering comments about Prince William, referring to him as a “muppet” with thinning hair, and has suggested that the Prince and Princess of Wales are aging rapidly despite having constant staff support.
Such remarks have not gone unnoticed, prompting reactions from various celebrities and commentators who have expressed regret over their own past comments about Kate.
Patti Harrower, a former spokesperson for Prince Charles and Princess Diana, described the online vitriol directed at Kate as some of the most severe she has ever seen.
This sentiment is echoed by other royal experts, including Omid Scobie, whose recent book, “Endgame,” has faced scrutiny over its unverified claims.
Scobie has also criticized the Sussexes for their association with Bussey, raising further questions about their commitment to combating online abuse.
As Meghan candidly discussed her mental health struggles, including her suicidal thoughts during her time as a senior royal, public scrutiny of both her and Harry intensified.
Many observers are now questioning the sincerity of the Sussexes’ efforts to address online harm, especially given their ties to someone like Bussey.
The ongoing backlash against the Sussexes highlights a broader issue within the royal family as they navigate the complexities of digital interactions.
The public and media alike are watching closely to see if Harry and Meghan can truly embody the leadership by example they advocate for, especially when their actions seem to contradict their words.