He comes from a famously private family, she was a Hollywood actress, so Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were always going to have different ideas of how much is too much. And now that issue is coming to a head as they increasingly rely on TV and tell-all book deals to make a living.
The couple looked as loved-up as ever at the polo last week, but insiders tell heat they’re at odds over the subject – with Harry said to be desperate to scale back the attention, while the former actress has told friends they’re just getting started.
“Harry did dial back on some PR engagements and filming commitments,” says an insider close to the 37-year-old Duke of Sussex, who quit royal duties in 2020 to move to California with the former Suits star. There, they scooped up a $100million Netflix deal and gave interviews slamming their old life in the UK. “It feels like it’s all become too much for him, especially with the Netflix crew everywhere. He’ll be so relieved when it’s over.”
Meghan, 40, and Harry, who are parents to three-year-old Archie and Lilibet, one, have previously been open to TV interviews, with the pair causing controversy back in March 2021 with their infamous Oprah Winfrey tell-all. Harry’s since appeared on The Late Late Show With James Corden and the Today programme, while last year, Meghan did a skit with comedy actress Melissa McCarthy in honour of her 40th birthday. They’ve also been filming a behind-the-scenes documentary about the Invictus Games called Heart Of Invictus, for Netflix, as well as working on a rumoured docuseries about their family life in California. But now, we’re told, Harry’s had enough – especially after seeing his family at the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee a few weeks ago.
“The frosty reaction he received from William and other members of the family really alarmed Harry,” says the insider. “He was embarrassed and felt no one wanted to be seen with him. It made him want to get away from the spotlight and focus on his charity work. He’s worried all the endless TV interviews are starting to look a bit tacky, and it feels like he’s drifting away from the reasons he and Meghan stepped down from the royal family in the first place.”
But his wife of four years is apparently not on the same page. “They’re really at odds over this,” says the source. “Meghan feels like they’re only just getting started with their showbiz work. She’s already preparing for their next big TV show and wants to collaborate with Oprah’s network to give people a look at the more glamorous aspects
of their lives. She’s even considering going down the reality TV route.”
In fact, the Duchess has been getting advice from her friend Oprah, 68, who’s got all sorts of plans for the couple. The source continues, “Oprah thinks a reality show is a great idea. She’s pointed out that many of her own fans thought of her talk show as trashy, but now she does renowned interviews with legendary figures in her perfectly pruned rose garden. There are really tasteful and classy ways to do reality television now, without looking like the Kardashians.
“She suggested Meghan let cameras in when it comes to her getting ready for top world events, catching a glimpse of her dress fittings and discussions with designers. Meghan loves the idea and is increasingly frustrated about Harry’s lack of enthusiasm. She is adamant that they can’t pass up these golden opportunities.
“They could be the most famous couple in the world – why would they turn that down?”