Meghan Markle has been issued a warning following her and Prince Harry‘s divorce statement.
Speculation surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s relationship has sparked concerns about a potential ‘professional separation,’ according to a crisis management expert.
As rumors grow, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex appear to be focusing on individual pursuits, further fueling public curiosity.
In recent months, both Harry and Meghan have increased their engagement in separate projects, with Harry emphasizing charity and causes akin to his royal background while Meghan explores more commercially-driven ventures.
This shift has not gone unnoticed by their supporters, many of whom are questioning the state of their relationship.
Although the couple has not formally addressed their divergent professional paths, Prince Harry recently confronted rumors suggesting a more personal rift.
Speaking at the New York Times DealBook Summit, he dismissed speculations about their alleged ‘split.’
Responding to the rumors, Harry stated: “Apparently we’ve bought or moved house 10, 12 times. We’ve apparently divorced maybe 10, 12 times as well. So it’s just like, what?”
He continued, reflecting on his experiences with media narratives: “I’ve had a lived experience since I was a kid. I’ve seen stories written about myself that aren’t exactly based on reality. I’ve seen stories about members of my family, friends, strangers, all sorts of people.”
Harry added that growing up in such an environment taught him to question the accuracy of media reports.
He acknowledged the danger these stories can pose, noting: “When you grow up within that environment, you do find yourself questioning the validity of the information but also what other people are thinking of that as well, and how dangerous it can be over the course of time.”
Despite Harry’s attempt to set the record straight, crisis management expert Drew Kerr has cautioned the couple about how their independent activities could be perceived.
Speaking to The Daily Beast, Kerr warned that consistent solo appearances without a clear explanation could prompt heightened speculation among fans.
Comparing the Sussexes’ situation to that of Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez – whose relationship ended in a highly publicized divorce earlier this year – Kerr noted that prolonged silence on relationship rumors can contribute to public uncertainty.
He explained: “One or two appearances apart is nothing. Adults are allowed to be independent in 2024. But if it is consistent, over a period of time, let’s say three or four weeks, with no explanation, then people might be entitled to speculate that something else is going on.”
Kerr emphasized that public figures must carefully manage their narratives to maintain clarity about their relationship and joint ventures.
He highlighted how Lopez and Affleck’s lack of communication on similar issues intensified media scrutiny.
“’Bennifer’ is the cautionary example here,” he said, adding that silence ‘does the talking’ for a couple and can lead fans to their own conclusions.
The expert also stressed that failing to address the state of their ‘joint brand’ could exacerbate rumors.
With the Sussexes increasingly in the spotlight for their individual endeavors, Kerr advised them to remain proactive in managing public perceptions to avoid misunderstandings about their relationship.
As Harry and Meghan continue to navigate their distinct professional interests, their actions will likely be closely observed.
Whether they decide to clarify their choices or let their individual pursuits speak for themselves, one thing is clear: speculation will persist unless directly addressed.
