The relationship between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and the British royal family has arguably never been more broken. Since stepping down as a senior royalty and moving to California in 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have publicly criticized the "royal family" in interviews and their Netflix documentary.
Their actions caused a lot of controversy on both sides of the Atlantic. Some see Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as brave fighters for change, while others see them as unfaithful to publicly condemning family issues. Regardless of personal opinions, it is undeniable that their dramatic resignation from royal duties and continued revelations have seriously damaged the public image and relationships of all involved.
But is it still possible for the two sides to reconcile after all this has happened? If so, what meaningful steps need to be taken?
Ellery Takamoto, a PR expert, said a more "radical approach" might be needed to start repairing relationships.
Takamoto is an expert at Ellery Unlimited, a Los Angeles-based PR firm specializing in crisis communications and reputation management. "This is a very sensitive situation and there is no easy answer. Takamoto noted. "The rift between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and the royal family is already deep – they have said some mean things to each other. To begin to rebuild trust and restore public perception of them, both sides need to take significant steps. ”
Takamoto admits that under normal circumstances, she might advise the couple to focus on positive initiatives, such as charity work, to restore their image. But given the fierce criticism that has been published, a bolder strategy is needed.
"In this particular case, any action that is not radical enough can easily be seen as hypocritical or insufficient," she said. One needs to see real, concrete signs that the royal family is serious about mending relationships. ”
So, what kind of "radical" but constructive steps can be taken forward?
Takamoto believes that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are once again fully fulfilling their royal duties in the UK – at least temporarily – could have a big impact.
"Returning to the UK in person again and attending official events with the Duchess of Cambridge and other members of the royal family will be a real commitment," she explained. This will show that they put their family first, despite the difficulties they face personally, while also providing meaningful face-to-face time to begin solving problems privately. ”
Of course, relocating two young children and establishing a life in a new country is not a trivial matter. But Takamoto argues that aggressive public relations outreach may offset short-term sacrifices.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are clearly looking to maintain their global attention and popularity. Rejoining the royal family, even during a probationary period, would generate extremely favorable coverage and regain worldwide support. ”
Of course, this idea comes with its own challenges. First, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle expressed their disgust with the royal system and their desire for independence. Obeying the rules of the court again could provoke their discontent.
At the same time, past tensions may resurface on occasions where they must appear together. And Netflix reportedly paid $100 million for future content production by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, which may conflict with professional priorities.
However, Takamoto believes that the temporary return offers the best chance to reverse the negative**. "Actions speak louder than words, and this action will leave all doubters speechless. It shows that their commitment is not just to succeed overseas, but to be traumatized at home for the sake of the family. She noted optimistically.
Of course, reconciliation requires the support of all parties. A genuine rapprochement could be achieved if the royal family also agreed to be consulted, resolve long-standing issues, and compromise with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on all fronts.
"Open communication in a safe, mediated space may provide understanding and closing the loop, while taking time and effort, respect may take root in today's land of resentment," Takamoto said. ”
This is a high-risk solution with no guarantees. But by fulfilling their royal duties and residing in the UK, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have the best chance of reviving global public perception and starting the long road of repairing family ties, according to PR experts.
It remains to be seen whether Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are willing to make such a bold move, and whether the royal family will accept such an olive branch, after all, so much has happened. However, Takamoto argues that without radical action, hopes for widespread forgiveness or a future united monarchy will continue to drift away.
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