The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, are charting separate paths in their professional lives, marking a shift from their earlier image as a powerful duo.
This move has sparked conversations about what it means for their individual projects and public personas, as well as how they will resonate with their audience going forward.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle professional separation
Since stepping back from their royal duties in 2020, the couple has worked closely on ventures like their Netflix series Harry & Meghan, which was a resounding success, breaking records and drawing widespread attention.
However, in recent months, their strategies have evolved, with both focusing on solo endeavors rather than joint appearances.
Harry’s latest project, Heart of Invictus, released in 2023, was a heartfelt exploration of the Invictus Games and the resilience of its participants. Despite its touching narrative, it struggled to match the massive success of their debut Netflix collaboration.
Looking ahead, Harry is set to release a new series, Polo, in December 2024. The documentary promises an inside look at the sport he is passionate about, but some critics have expressed concern about its niche appeal.
Meanwhile, Meghan has her sights set on a culinary project slated for release in 2025.
Described as a cooking show with a unique twist, it’s anticipated to capture a broader audience, potentially outshining Harry’s upcoming series.
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams remarked, “Meghan’s cookery programme will have a lot of viewers. There is no doubt it will be more successful than Polo.”
The trailer for Polo, which recently debuted, focuses primarily on the lives and relationships of the players, notably Harry’s close friend Nacho Figueras.
Interestingly, neither Harry nor Meghan appears in the preview, a choice that has puzzled some viewers.
An insider suggested that the absence of Harry’s prominent role could detract from the series’ appeal, given the sport’s niche status.
On the other hand, Meghan’s choice to pivot to a relatable format like cooking could be a strategic move.
Experts point out that the Duchess has always shown a knack for connecting with audiences on a personal level, and this project could reinforce her position as a figure of warmth and accessibility.
As Harry and Meghan’s professional separation moves forward, the question remains: will their individual projects succeed without the dynamics of their partnership?