Expert Says Meghan Can Win Back the British Public ― but She'll Need to Do Three Things First
As Meghan Markle prepares to return to the UK after nearly four years, one branding expert believes three key moves could help rebuild her public image.
Meghan Markle's public profile in the UK has faced complex challenges over the last several years. Her upcoming travel plans ― marking her first return to Britain in nearly four years alongside her husband, Prince Harry, and their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet ― could offer a turning point. According to brand and culture expert Nick Ede, the visit presents an opportunity to address her public standing, provided she takes three specific steps to reshape her image.
Speaking to the Daily Express, Ede detailed two things she should do and one thing she should absolutely avoid doing: “A successful return would focus on meaningful charitable engagements, supporting causes close to her heart and avoiding any perception that the visit is being used to promote a brand, project or media venture.”
When Markle and Harry travelled to Australia earlier this year, the Duchess’s partnership with OneOff, an AI-driven fashion platform, had raised eyebrows. She put up her outfits from the tour on the platform, enabling her to receive a portion of the cut. While many must have believed it to be a business masterstroke, it cast doubts on the Sussexes’ intentions if they were ever to travel to the UK, especially as Harry is still fighting for automatic police protection. The request to receive state-funded security while monetizing from the work trip may not sit well with the British people.
Markle had always been involved in several humanitarian causes even before her wedding to Harry in 2018. She took her work forward when she entered the royal fold. She had four patronages: The National Theatre, The Association of Commonwealth Universities, Mayhew, and Smartworks. Apart from that, as working royals, Harry and Markle supported several charitable organisations such as Myna Mahila Foundation, Surfers Against Sewage, StreetGames, Crisis, etc. In 2018, the Duchess released Together: Our Community Cookbook, alongside the Hubb Community Kitchen. The charitable project supported families affected by the Grenfell Tower tragedy.
Ede further mentioned, “If Meghan wants to rebuild her relationship with the British public, it would be good to see her go back to some of the charities she supported when she was in the Royal Family.” One can argue that Markle and Harry’s visit to the UK next month is for a noble cause, considering they are primarily crossing the pond to mark the 100-day countdown to the 2027 Invictus Games.
When the Sussexes are in the UK, they are expected to live in different accommodations, including a royal residence. They might also visit Princess Diana’s grave at Althorp, as the Duke allegedly wants his children to connect with their late grandmother.
