British model and TV presenter Lizzie Cundy criticizes Meghan Markle for snubbing King Charles' coronation, sparking fears that the royal rift will only deepen as the Sussexes expand their business empire in California.
British model and TV presenter Lizzie Cundy, who met Meghan Markle in 2013, has criticized the Duchess of Sussex for her decision not to attend King Charles' coronation. Cundy believes that the Sussexes have become disloyal to the royal family by airing their grievances publicly and need to find their own identity outside of their royal connections.
Royal experts have echoed these concerns, fearing that the Sussexes will further deepen their rift with the royal family if they continue to monetize their titles. Christopher Andersen, author of "The King," told Fox News Digital that Harry and Meghan have drifted so far apart from King Charles III and Prince William that there is no foreseeable way for them to be welcomed back.
Royal Divide Deepens: Sussexes Must Choose Between Royal Ties and Independent Identity
Even if Harry were to apologize, Andersen believes the best he could hope for would be "crumbs from the royal table" and grudging acceptance, similar to that currently afforded to Prince Andrew. He warns that if the Sussexes continue to capitalize on their royal status, they will only make matters worse but if they focus on building their brand in California without relying on their Windsor connection, they may have a better chance of reconciling with the royal family.
This statement follows claims by royal correspondent Russell Myers that the Sussexes will not be welcomed back into the royal fold if they use their titles to make money. Myers claims that members of the royal family have told Harry that he must stop talking about them if he wants to have a relationship with them.
Royal Divide Deepens: Sussexes Must Choose Between Royal Ties and Independent Identity
The couple's pal, Nacho Figueras, recently came under fire for posting about Meghan's products as Kate Middleton returned to the public eye. Critics accused Figueras of promoting the Sussexes' brand while Kate was undergoing cancer treatment. However, some believe the timing was coincidental.
Celebrity branding expert Doug Eldridge believes it is likely that the Sussexes will use their royal titles to boost their business dealings, as their popularity and success have been largely built on their connection to the royal family. He notes that Harry and Meghan had very different levels of popularity before their split from the royal family and that everything they have done since has been off the backs of their royal connection.
Royal Divide Deepens: Sussexes Must Choose Between Royal Ties and Independent Identity
Edridge also points out that the Sussexes are unlikely to be legally prohibited from monetizing their former or current royal status, as Harry was once beloved around the world and Meghan enjoyed some popularity as an actress on "Suits." However, he doubts that Meghan has the "sparkle" to generate the same level of interest and success as Taylor Swift, who is known for creating newsworthy narratives and capturing the attention of fresh audiences.
Harry's strained relationship with his family has been well-documented in TV interviews, a documentary, and his memoir. He and Meghan moved to California in 2020, citing racist attitudes and unbearable intrusions from the British media. However, Harry recently visited London briefly after the King was diagnosed with cancer.
Royal Divide Deepens: Sussexes Must Choose Between Royal Ties and Independent Identity
Meghan has launched a new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, which includes products such as jellies, jams, and gardening tools. The brand has been met with mixed reactions, with some questioning the Sussexes' use of their royal titles to promote their business ventures.
British royal expert Hilary Fordwich believes that Harry and Meghan have not fully understood that their success is determined by the power of their unique selling point, which is their connection to the royal family. She argues that if they were to give up their titles, Harry's USP would be greatly diminished and their public appeal would likely suffer.
Royal Divide Deepens: Sussexes Must Choose Between Royal Ties and Independent Identity
Kinsey Schofield, host of the To Di For Daily podcast, wonders why the Sussexes have not given up on their royal titles if they are determined to live independently in California. She believes that their royal association is their only significant currency and that they know giving up their titles would negatively impact their financial value.
Schofield believes that Harry's defiance in keeping his titles is a way for him to maintain his proximity to the royal family, which is valuable for his commercial interests. She acknowledges that Harry has risked his relationship with the royal family by continuing to monetize his title, but argues that he has already done so to some extent.
Royal Divide Deepens: Sussexes Must Choose Between Royal Ties and Independent Identity
