The Sussexes were criticised by an expert (Image: Getty) This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s “scathing rant” about a new royal book was “not a wise move at all” as it worked against them, a PR expert has claimed. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex made headlines last weekend after their spokesperson released a lengthy and fiery statement, dismissing a number of bombshell claims made in Tom Bower’s forthcoming book.
Mr Bower’s latest offering, parts of which have been serialised by The Times magazine, makes a number of accusations against the Sussexes, their relationship with the Prince and Princess of Wales and the Invictus Games.
The Sussexes’ spokesperson statement read: “Mr Bower’s commentary has long crossed the line from criticism into fixation. This is someone who has publicly stated, ‘the monarchy in fact depends on actually obliterating the Sussexes from our state of life,’ language that speaks for itself. He has made a career out of constructing ever more elaborate theories about people he does not know and has never met. Those interested in facts will look elsewhere; those seeking deranged conspiracy and melodrama know exactly where to find him.”
READ MORE: Meghan Markle hit with big new problem ahead of £1,700-a-ticket girls’ weekend
READ MORE: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle ‘deeply bothered’ after furious outburst
The Sussexes hit back at claims made against them (Image: Getty)
But now a PR expert criticised the move and claimed it was “damaging” for both the Duke and the Duchess.
Renae Smith, founder and director of Atticism, told the Daily Express: “From a PR perspective, I don’t think the statement was a wise move at all.
“It was scathing, very detailed, and emotionally loaded, which is rarely the strongest position when you’re dealing with a book like this.
“The problem is that these are not brand new criticisms. They sit very much within the existing public perception of Harry and Meghan, particularly around ego, control, image management, and making things about themselves.
“That is why this kind of material is damaging. It is not introducing an entirely new scandal. It is reinforcing the line that already exists.
“And from a reputational point of view, that can be even more harmful, because repetition hardens perception. It takes an existing vibe and darkens it.”
Ms Smith went on to say that she would have advised the couple to stay quiet as “silence is stronger”.
She explained: “The [late] Queen’s approach of saying very little was powerful for a reason. It denied oxygen.
“Harry and Meghan, on the other hand, have engaged in a way that gives the book more attention, not less.”
Following their outburst, Mr Bower spoke to the Daily Express and said: “The Sussexes are reaching the end of the road in Hollywood.
“Their behaviour, lack of original talent and suffocating self-importance has made it even more important for them to return to Britain in July, meet the King and be revalidated as royals.”