The couple’s upcoming film, Harry – The Lost Prince, could determine the future of their public image and relations with the royal family.
As Meghan Markle and Prince Harry prepare for the release of their new documentary on December 3, their strained relationship with the Royal Family may soon reach a breaking point. The film, titled Harry – The Lost Prince, is set to air on Germany’s ZDF and centres on the lives of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. With the documentary expected to reveal further insights into the couple’s personal struggles and royal exit, all eyes are on how it will affect their public image.
The release of the film comes at a time when Harry and Meghan’s popularity seems to be in flux. In recent years, their once-gleaming image has been marred by ongoing tensions with Buckingham Palace and public criticism of their royal departure. PR expert Ryan Cormick, speaking to The Mirror US, suggests that the success of the documentary will serve as a critical “popularity test” for the couple.
“Until the film airs, everything is just speculation,” Cormick remarked. “However, if the special fails to attract a significant viewership, it could signal that their popularity has truly declined.”
The documentary promises to delve into the lives of the Sussexes, focusing on their journey as ex-royals, with a particular emphasis on their quest for independence and the challenges they have faced since stepping down from official royal duties. But its success, according to Cormick, will depend heavily on the narrative it presents.
“If the film exposes fresh scandals and portrays Harry and Meghan as opportunists trying to cash in on royal secrets, it could significantly harm any hopes for reconciliation with the Royal Family,” Cormick explained. “It could also severely impact their reputation and likability, making them seem out of touch or self-serving.”
However, the documentary’s outcome is not entirely bleak. If the film adopts a more positive, down-to-earth approach—showing the couple in a relatable light, perhaps with humour—it could dramatically improve public perception, Cormick noted.
The timing of the documentary’s release adds another layer of complexity to the situation. In recent months, Meghan and Harry have taken a more low-profile approach, focusing on their philanthropic endeavours and private life. However, with the documentary poised to stir public conversation once more, their every move is under intense scrutiny.
The stakes are high for the Sussexes. Their relationship with the Royal Family has been a contentious issue ever since their dramatic exit in 2020, with their critics accusing them of betraying their royal duties in favour of personal gain. Yet, despite the criticism, the couple has managed to maintain a loyal fanbase, particularly in the United States, where they have carved out a new life away from royal obligations.
With the upcoming documentary, Harry and Meghan may face a pivotal moment in their public lives. Will the film be a stepping stone towards renewed popularity or a final blow to their already fragile image?
The public and the media alike will soon find out as the world watches the unfolding narrative. As Meghan and Harry continue to navigate their complex relationship with the Royal Family, the release of Harry – The Lost Prince could determine whether they are still able to hold the public’s attention—or whether their star has finally begun to fade.
