Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s relationship with the British media has been tumultuous, to say the least. From their whirlwind romance to their departure from royal duties, the couple has been the subject of intense scrutiny and criticism. But why has the British media been so harsh on Harry and Meghan? This blog delves into the various reasons behind the media’s apparent dislike, exploring the cultural, societal, and historical factors that have fueled this contentious relationship.
Breaking Royal Traditions
A Modern Love Story
Prince Harry’s relationship with Meghan Markle broke several long-standing royal traditions. Meghan, an American actress, divorcee, and biracial woman, was a departure from the typical royal spouse profile. This unconventional pairing brought fresh air into the monarchy but also sparked resistance from traditionalists and the media alike.
Rapid Romance
Their relationship moved quickly, from their first date to engagement in less than two years. The speed of their romance contrasted with the more gradual courtships expected of royals, leading to skepticism and criticism from the media.
Media Intrusion and Legal Battles
Relentless Scrutiny
From the onset of their relationship, Harry and Meghan faced relentless media scrutiny. Tabloids and newspapers published countless stories, often focusing on Meghan’s background, family, and alleged behaviors. The intense media focus was reminiscent of the harassment faced by Harry’s mother, Princess Diana, fueling his protective instincts.
Legal Actions
Harry and Meghan have taken legal action against several media outlets for invasion of privacy and publishing false information. These lawsuits have strained their relationship with the press, painting them as adversaries of the media. The couple’s willingness to challenge the press has been met with hostility, as it threatens the media’s sense of freedom and influence.
Racism and Misogyny
Racial Bias
The coverage of Meghan Markle often displayed underlying racial bias. As a biracial woman, Meghan faced scrutiny and criticism that many perceived as racially motivated. Negative stereotypes and dog-whistle racism in some media narratives highlighted a societal issue that many hoped the royal family’s acceptance of Meghan would help to mitigate.
Misogynistic Undertones
Meghan has also faced significant misogyny in media coverage. Articles often portrayed her as controlling or manipulative, echoing sexist tropes that have long been used to undermine strong, successful women. The scrutiny of her behavior, fashion choices, and even her maternity leave decisions were often harsher than those faced by her white, male counterparts in the royal family.
Independence and Control
Financial Independence
One of the key reasons for Harry and Meghan’s departure from royal duties was their desire for financial independence. This move challenged the traditional funding structures of the royal family and was met with skepticism and criticism. The couple’s efforts to secure their own income through media deals and public speaking engagements were seen by some as hypocritical, given their previous condemnation of media intrusion.
Control Over Narrative
Harry and Meghan’s desire to control their narrative and limit media access contrasted sharply with the traditional royal approach. Historically, the British royal family has maintained a somewhat symbiotic relationship with the press, offering access and stories in exchange for positive coverage. Harry and Meghan’s approach disrupted this balance, leading to friction and negative press.
Public Perception and Popularity
Divisive Figures
Harry and Meghan are divisive figures in British society. While they have a significant following and support base, particularly among younger and more progressive demographics, they also face substantial criticism from more conservative and traditional segments of society. The media often reflects these divides, with some outlets catering to audiences that disapprove of the couple’s actions.
Influence of Social Media
In the age of social media, public figures are subject to intense and often polarized scrutiny. Harry and Meghan’s actions and statements are amplified and dissected in real-time, creating a feedback loop that fuels media narratives. The couple’s strong presence on platforms like Instagram allowed them to bypass traditional media, further antagonizing an already hostile press.
The Royal Family Dynamics
Perceived Rift with the Royals
Media coverage has often focused on the perceived rift between Harry and Meghan and the rest of the royal family. Stories about conflicts with Prince William, Kate Middleton, and other royals have fueled public interest and media sales. The narrative of a family feud captivates audiences but also adds to the negative portrayal of Harry and Meghan.
Departure from Royal Duties
Their decision to step back from royal duties, dubbed “Megxit,” was unprecedented and controversial. The media framed their departure as a betrayal of royal responsibilities, questioning their commitment to public service. This narrative played into broader criticisms of the couple as seeking fame and fortune over duty.
The British media’s dislike of Harry and Meghan is multifaceted, rooted in a combination of breaking royal traditions, legal battles, underlying racism and misogyny, and their desire for independence and control. These factors, coupled with the couple’s divisive public perception and the dynamics within the royal family, have created a perfect storm of media hostility. As Harry and Meghan continue to navigate their lives outside of the royal spotlight, their relationship with the British media remains complex and fraught with tension. The couple’s story is a testament to the changing nature of celebrity, media, and monarchy in the 21st century.