Before stepping down as a senior member of the Royal Family in 2020, Prince Harry was one of the most popular figures within the royal household and among the media. Known for his charm and charisma, the Duke of Sussex had a special connection with both his family members and royal staff, according to Queen Elizabeth II’s former press secretary, Alisa Anderson.
In an interview in The royal exclusive spectacle of the sunAnderson reflected on his time working at the palace from 2001 to 2013, highlighting Harry’s endearing qualities. “Harry was the media darling,” he shared. “He was the war hero, he had served in Afghanistan, he was a cheeky guy.”
Anderson emphasized the stark contrast between Harry and his brother, Prince William, in the eyes of the media. “If you talk to royal correspondents who have been on the job for a long time, they all absolutely loved Harry,” he explained. “Compared to William, in fact. “William was seen as more serious and shy, but Harry was the life of the party.”
During his time as a royal, Harry was widely admired for his humour, intelligence and calm nature. “He couldn’t do anything wrong,” Anderson recalled, noting that Harry’s reputation as a lovable and approachable royal was solidified during those years. “When I talked to him, he was funny and smart.”
One of the key aspects of Harry’s legacy as a royal was his deep passion for the military. Anderson noted that his dedication to causes such as the Invictus Games, an international sporting event for wounded military personnel, remains a testament to his commitment. “He was passionate about the military; the Invictus Games are clearly a testament to that.” she said.
Anderson also shared a joyful memory of posing for a photo with Harry, further highlighting her approachable and down-to-earth personality. “I have a photo in my hallway of Harry and I hugging outside a ladies’ room; don’t read anything into that,” she joked. “It was very funny. “I was very happy to pose with a member of staff for a photograph.”
Reflecting on her time with Harry, Anderson’s affection for the prince was clear. “I can only speak from experience, but he was like that: the media favorite,” he concluded.
Harry’s departure from royal duties in 2020 marked a significant change in his public image, but Anderson’s recollections serve as a reminder of his once-cherished status both within the Royal Family and in the media at large.