Harry and Meghan Face 2026 Criticism Over 'Half-In' Royal Role as Private Ventures Expand
Updated
Updated · Fox News · May 19
Harry and Meghan Face 2026 Criticism Over 'Half-In' Royal Role as Private Ventures Expand
8 articles · Updated · Fox News · May 19
Royal commentators renewed criticism of Prince Harry, 41, and Meghan, 44, saying their post-2020 model still mimics a rejected "half-in, half-out" role while trading on royal status.
The backlash centers on heavily photographed trips to Nigeria, Colombia, Ukraine and Australia, which critics describe as "faux royal tours" that blur charity work, public service and commercial promotion.
Meghan’s monetization has drawn particular scrutiny: a shopping partnership linked to her Australia wardrobe drew more than 1 million views in three days, while a women’s retreat sold $3,199 VIP packages including a group photo.
The dispute revives the 2020 Sandringham Summit, when Queen Elizabeth ruled the couple could not pursue private ventures while remaining senior working royals; Harry has since said he will "always be part of the royal family."
Supporters argue the couple are openly using their fame to amplify causes, but critics say the strategy is further damaging already fraught prospects for reconciliation with King Charles and Prince William.
As King Charles plans his official US visit, are the Sussexes' 'faux royal tours' a genuine diplomatic threat or a celebrity sideshow?
With their brand labeled 'toxic' and deals failing, can the Sussexes build a lasting empire without the crown's implicit support?