“They haven’t done themselves any favors by doing so many separate events, but this is what they have decided to do as it works best for them at the moment as a couple.”

PR expert Ed Coram James suggests that pursuing separate projects could help repair their individual reputations. He believes their joint brand has become “toxic” since the controversial Oprah interview.

“This is because the ongoing confrontation with the rest of the Royal Family, as well as much of Meghan’s family, have made them appear confrontational and combative,” James told The Mirror. He noted their projects often fail, leading to a perception of incompetence, and their public appearances have been criticized as “whiny, ungrateful, and unconscious of their privilege.”

“To overcome the obstacles of appearing spoiled, arrogant, immature, attention-seeking, aggressive, fight-picking, hypocritical, and incompetent is very tricky. But it is achievable,” he added.

Renae Smith, founder of PR firm Atticism, agrees but warns that the couple’s decision to focus on separate brands could strain their relationship over time. “From a PR perspective, this shift might allow each of them to create distinct brands that better reflect their different priorities,” she explained.

Harry and Meghan themselves have acknowledged they are at a “crossroads” professionally. While Meghan recently attended a Thanksgiving event hosted by the Southern California Welcome Project, Harry participated in engagements tied to the Invictus Games. At the California event, Meghan expressed gratitude for connecting with women who had resettled in the U.S. from Afghanistan.

“This initiative… has spent the past year building community through storytelling and creating a safe space for women,” Meghan shared.

The couple plans to attend the Invictus Games together in February 2025, marking a rare family appearance with their children, Archie and Lilibet.

At the New York Times’ 2024 DealBook Summit, Harry addressed speculation about their independent engagements.

“They’re fascinated by Meghan, who is in California right now, and you’re here,” interviewer Andrew Ross Sorkin remarked.

Harry quipped, “Because you invited me, you should have known!” before admitting that such speculation isn’t beneficial.

Reflecting on his relationship with the media, Harry said, “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… and how dangerous it can be over the course of time.”