Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been cautioned that blending their royal heritage with their celebrity activism without a cohesive narrative could negatively affect their Sussex brand. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who embarked on a ‘PR blitz’ in 2024 after revamping their brand, are currently engaged in several projects. These include Meghan Markle’s lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, two new Netflix shows focusing on polo and cooking, and their latest “unofficial royal tour” in Nigeria.
The Challenge of a Hybrid Brand
Renae Smith, founder and director of the PR agency Atticism, analyzed the couple’s “unique hybrid brand” and expressed concerns about the need for a unified narrative to avoid audience confusion and potential brand dilution. “Consistency is key for high-profile brands like Harry and Meghan’s,” Smith told the Express.
Smith explained, “Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s strategy of combining royal gravitas with celebrity activism creates a unique hybrid brand, but it comes with challenges as well as opportunities. Their varied activities—from media productions to launching lifestyle brands and engaging in international humanitarian efforts—demonstrate a desire to leverage their high profile in multiple arenas. However, from a PR perspective, the lack of a unified narrative could confuse their audience and potentially weaken their brand impact.”
The Importance of a Clear Message
Smith emphasized the necessity of a clear and consistent message for building a strong and reliable brand. “When the message becomes fragmented, it can lead to audience disengagement. Focusing on a core set of aligned initiatives might help them strengthen their brand identity and deepen their impact,” she said.
The PR expert also commented on the couple’s potential future “unofficial royal tours” abroad, suggesting these could enhance their overall image if executed effectively. “Regarding the idea of ‘unofficial royal tours,’ these could enhance their image as compassionate, proactive figures on the global stage. Such tours are clearly part of a strategy for them to maintain a presence in royal-like duties that align with their personal missions of advocacy and charity. However, the success of these tours would heavily depend on their ability to produce real, measurable impacts in these communities, rather than just appearing as high-profile visits.”
Strategic Focus for Lasting Impact
Smith concluded that while Harry and Meghan’s diverse initiatives reflect a dynamic range of interests, they must be tied back to a “central mission statement or cause” to maintain “brand strength and clarity.” She advised focusing on “fewer, more aligned projects” to create a stronger and more coherent brand narrative.
“This focused approach will not only help in building a stronger connection with their audience but also in achieving more substantial, lasting change in their areas of interest,” Smith noted. She highlighted the importance of leaving a lasting positive outcome in the communities they visit, which could amplify their credibility and authenticity.
The Path Forward
As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle navigate their post-royal careers, the need for a unified narrative becomes crucial. Their brand’s strength lies in a consistent message that resonates with their audience and aligns with their core values. By honing their focus on aligned projects and ensuring measurable impacts from their initiatives, they can solidify their position as influential figures on the global stage.
The Sussexes’ journey is a testament to the complexities of maintaining a high-profile brand that balances royal heritage and modern activism. Their ability to adapt and refine their approach will be key to their continued success and relevance. As they move forward, their commitment to a clear and consistent narrative will be instrumental in preserving the integrity and impact of the Sussex brand.
