When Prince Harry and Meghan Markle make their way back to the UK this month, they will be re-entering a nation that has been engrossed in discussions about them from a distance for six years. Their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, are set to start school in the UK in September, and reports suggest that the couple will reside privately outside London for an extended period, maintaining their non-working royal status.
With speculations surrounding their return, there is a question of whether the tabloid’s fascination with the couple will diminish this time around, especially after their past contentious relationship with the British media that led to their relocation to California. Steven Barnett, a communications professor at the University of Westminster, highlighted the polarized portrayal of Harry and Meghan in the British press, emphasizing the tendency for personal attacks and sensationalism.
The press coverage of Meghan has often been negative, with a significant contrast to that of Kate Middleton, as revealed in a Guardian analysis. Royal commentator Afua Hagan anticipates heightened interest in the UK upon the couple’s return, describing it as re-entering a challenging environment but noting that they are now better equipped to handle the media scrutiny.
Barnett noted a shift in public focus towards other matters, suggesting that the British public may have shifted attention to different narratives. The recent legal setback faced by Prince Harry and others in privacy lawsuits against the Daily Mail could potentially lead to more negative coverage, according to Barnett.
The return of Prince Harry and Meghan coincides with a period of reflection on British media practices following the death of Cambridge professor Jason Arday. The intense scrutiny faced by Arday and its connection to negative press coverage of Meghan has sparked debates on media ethics and diversity in the UK.
Marcus Ryder, an advocate for media diversity, highlighted the lack of representation in British media and its impact on narratives surrounding individuals of color. The intertwining of Arday’s story with broader discussions on race and inclusion underscores the systemic issues within British institutions.
The evolving narratives around Arday and Meghan reflect deeper societal tensions around privilege and diversity in the UK. As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex transition to a non-royal role and settle in California, the public discourse surrounding them may evolve, potentially showcasing a more positive perspective from certain segments of the population, particularly Black women.