Royal author Hugo Vickers claims Meghan Markle leveraged Prince Harry’s status for global fame

A royal expert has sparked controversy by suggesting Meghan Markle always had a plan when marrying Prince Harry—global fame.

Royal author Hugo Vickers, speaking to The Sun, claimed the Duke of Sussex is being treated like “product placement” in Meghan’s new Netflix show, With Love, Meghan. A teaser for the series features Meghan engaging in everyday activities with her late dog, Guy, while Harry makes a brief but notable appearance.

Vickers argued that Harry’s cameo is essential to the show’s success. “The reason people watch these things is because of him—because he’s Prince Harry, and she’s married to Prince Harry,” he said. “Without him, it wouldn’t reach the same level of fame.”

The expert also speculated that Meghan had always intended to use her royal marriage as a stepping stone to worldwide recognition. “I always thought when she married him that she probably had a little plan,” Vickers stated. “He is the reason she has the identity she now has.”

Netflix has not commented on the claims, but Meghan’s series continues to generate buzz as speculation swirls about its impact on the couple’s public image.

Vickers’ remarks have reignited debates over Meghan’s intentions and the couple’s evolving public roles. While some critics echo his claims, supporters argue that Meghan and Harry are simply navigating life on their own terms, away from royal constraints.

Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Meghan and Harry have pursued various media ventures, including multimillion-dollar deals with Netflix and Spotify. While some see their projects as an attempt to control their own narrative, others view them as strategic moves to maintain relevance in Hollywood and beyond. With With Love, Meghan set to premiere soon, many are watching closely to see how the show will shape public perception of the couple.

Despite ongoing criticism, Meghan remains a polarizing figure, with a loyal fan base that admires her advocacy work and resilience. Industry insiders believe her Netflix series could be a calculated step toward building a lifestyle brand, leveraging her global influence beyond royal connections. However, Vickers’ comments have reignited discussions on whether the Sussexes can truly separate their public identity from their royal past.