Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s recent visit to New York City for an event on World Mental Health Day didn’t quite create the buzz one might expect for the royal couple.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were representing the Archule Foundation at the Project Healthy Minds event in Hudson Yards, where they took part in a panel discussion on mental wellness in the digital age.
However, their arrival and departure from the venue went largely unnoticed, with the absence of a bustling crowd catching many by surprise.
When asked about their thoughts on Harry and Meghan’s presence in New York, locals seemed largely indifferent.
Clemendez, a 22-year-old from the Bronx, admitted, “I mean if I get to see them, it’s cool, but I didn’t know they were here.”
Despite several black SUVs parked outside the venue, most tourists and locals appeared unfazed by the royal presence.
However, there was one ardent royal fan, A. McGinnis, an author from New Jersey, who attended the event and had a more positive perspective.
She stated, “I’ve always been a royal watcher.
I’m blown away by the whole story.
I’m a big fan of the whole family.”
Nevertheless, even McGinnis agreed that Harry and Meghan didn’t attract a significant crowd in New York, describing the atmosphere as very relaxed, and the attendees as respectful and considerate of their space.
The contrast between Prince William’s visit and Harry and Meghan’s was notable.
William’s visit saw substantial crowds, impressive security measures, and an enthusiastic reception.
It shouldn’t have come as a surprise, as Harry and Meghan had not previously drawn similar crowds in New York.
This fresh comparison between the two visits seemed to further diminish their public appeal.
Interestingly, the footage of the mental health panel failed to offer a clear view of the audience’s size.
In one video featuring Meghan Markle and Harry during the panel discussion, only about eight heads were visible in the background.
The camera did not pan to showcase the various audience members, making it difficult to discern the number of people present.
This selective presentation may have been intentional, possibly to avoid highlighting the relatively low turnout.
Moreover, a moment captured on video by the Daily Mail showed Meghan seemingly pushing Harry aside as he attempted to shake hands with an event attendee.
Harry had extended his hand for a handshake, and the man reciprocated before Meghan inserted herself in front of Harry to ensure she was the first to greet the guest.
In the video, Harry eventually wiped his nose and proceeded to shake the gentleman’s hand, with the attendee not paying much attention to either of their faces.
This incident, along with Meghan’s other actions, such as excessive hugging of strangers, has prompted criticism for her perceived inappropriate behavior.