Harry and Meghan’s media storm shows the power and peril of their brand

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have returned to Britain, just six years after they left due to the intense media scrutiny they faced. Reports have emerged that Meghan was in talks for a role in a Guy Ritchie Netflix crime drama, only for the offer to be withdrawn due to backlash. Branding experts emphasize that the couple brings huge media interest, polarized opinions, and drama, but also face the challenge of promoting their charities and maintaining privacy in a country where they have become unpopular, particularly among older people.

Harry, 41, and Meghan, 45, had cited the intense scrutiny as a reason for leaving the royal family, criticizing the press and the British monarchy through interviews with Oprah Winfrey, a Netflix documentary, and Harry's autobiography "Spare." Despite their setbacks, such as downgraded deals and struggles for Meghan's lifestyle brand "As Ever," branding experts believe a return to Britain could offer a fresh start for Meghan's brand, giving it an "English touch" that could resonate with her American consumers.

However, the fairytale of their move to Britain has quickly turned sour, with the couple facing some of the worst coverage ever seen in their research. Harry has also sued many British tabloids for privacy invasions, while Meghan's brand has faced struggles. Experts suggest that a return to acting, particularly on stage, could help change the narrative for Meghan, but they would need to navigate the intense scrutiny they will face in both the social and legacy media realms.