Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to split their professional activities has sparked significant discussion about the motivations behind the move. According to UK public relations specialist Mark Borkowski, the couple’s realization that “their star power wasn’t as successful as they had hoped” could have been the turning point.
Borkowski how the couple’s co-branding initially failed. “There has been a separation (from his work) for a while now,” he said. “Harry is ‘going back to basics’ with a formula that worked well for him as a member of the Royal Family.” However, he added: “We also realize that the couple’s ‘star power’ was not as successful as they had hoped. “They had to change the narrative.”
Celebrity branding expert Doug Eldridge supported this perspective and compared his decision to a strategic move at the poker table. “This is similar to splitting aces at a poker table,” he explained. “Together you would think they were unbeatable, and usually they would be, but many times it is better to play two separate hands with an ace as an anchor.”
Eldridge noted that the couple’s joint public appearances have become closely linked to controversy. “When you see Harry and Meghan together, it evokes an immediate association with drama, none of which is positive: leaving the Royal Family, the tell-all book, the meetings, the negativity,” he said. By following individual paths, they may find it easier to reshape their public image. “In contrast, when viewed separately, they can almost play their hand, like the pair of aces being split on the table.”
Eldridge noted that Prince Harry could regain his reputation as the “lovely guy they always thought of,” while Meghan could focus on building her own brand. Speculation about Meghan’s upcoming business ventures, including a rumored lifestyle line, suggests she could be ready for a new beginning.
This shift in strategy marks a new chapter for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as they work to redefine their individual legacies. For Harry, it’s a return to his roots, building on the goodwill he built as a royal. For Meghan, it’s a chance to establish herself as a force in business and culture.
It remains to be seen whether this split will help them regain the influence they once sought. For now, it’s a calculated bet designed to give everyone a better hand to play.