Royal expert claims Prince Harry’s Hollywood efforts are “crumbling” as public backlash mounts over his nomination for the Pat Tillman Award

Prince Harry‘s attempt at a Hollywood relaunch has come under fire, with a royal expert claiming that his efforts are “crumbling” amid public backlash. The Duke of Sussex, who relocated to the US in 2020, is set to receive the Pat Tillman Award for Service for his work with the Invictus Games at the upcoming ESPY Awards in LA. However, the announcement of his nomination has sparked significant controversy.

A petition with tens of thousands of signatures has urged ESPN, the TV network behind the ESPY Awards, to reconsider Harry’s nomination. The award is named after Pat Tillman, a former NFL player and US Army Ranger who was killed in Afghanistan in 2004. Critics argue that Harry’s “brutal attacks” on the Royal Family should disqualify him from receiving such an honour.

Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams told The Sun that Harry must be feeling “very embarrassed” by the backlash. Fitzwilliams stated, “I think it must be a very considerable blow to Prince Harry that the fact he’s getting the Pat Tillman award on [Thursday] has caused such fury. He must be personally feeling very, very embarrassed about this. The facts of the matter are that people haven’t forgotten this and have not forgotten what were brutal attacks.”

Fitzwilliams added that Harry needs to realize that people are not solely focused on his current endeavours but are also scrutinizing his past actions and relationships with his family.

Analysis:

• Political: Prince Harry’s Hollywood relaunch and the associated controversies highlight the complex interplay between personal actions and public perception. This situation could influence the broader narrative surrounding the royal family’s role and image in modern society.
• Social: The backlash against Harry’s award nomination underscores the ongoing public interest in royal family dynamics and the expectations placed on its members. It reflects societal values regarding accountability and the impact of public figures’ actions.
• Economic: The royal family’s public image has significant economic implications, particularly concerning public support and tourism. Controversies involving high-profile members like Prince Harry can affect public perception and, consequently, the economic aspects tied to the monarchy.
• Cultural: This situation illustrates the cultural expectations of royal family members to uphold certain standards and traditions. Deviations from these expectations, such as Harry’s perceived attacks on the family, can lead to public criticism and cultural tensions.