A new German documentary has sparked controversy by casting a critical light on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's lifestyle in the United States. Titled "Harry: The Lost Prince," the film explores the couple's life and charitable endeavors after they left the Royal Family, suggesting a disparity between their public persona and private actions.
According to Mail Online, the documentary alleges that the couple's actions do not align with their stated mission, especially in combating global poverty.
The film, which aired in Germany, has sparked widespread discussion, including among British royal reporters and local neighbors in Montecito. It presents a view of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex that sharply contrasts with the charitable image they aim to project. The film takes viewers on a journey that highlights both their public engagements and the criticisms they face.
Early observations of the film by Femail reveal that the documentary portrays Harry and Meghan's attempts to establish themselves as charity activists while leading a luxurious lifestyle. The narrative questions the sincerity of their public roles, contrasting them with the background of their life in affluent Montecito.
The documentary highlights a notable episode where Meghan Markle visits impoverished nations dressed in high-end designer outfits, a choice that drew criticism for seeming out of touch with the socio-economic realities of the locales they visited. This section of the documentary underscores the tension between the couple's advocacy for the underprivileged and their personal indulgence in luxury.
Ben McBean, a former soldier and a public figure in his own right, voices his disappointment in the documentary. He criticizes Prince Harry for what he describes as petty grievances aired publicly against his royal family, specifically referencing an account from Harry's book "Spare," where he details personal conflicts with his brother.
According to the documentary, Harry and Meghan's charity, the Archewell Foundation, has seen a significant dip in donations over the past year, plummeting from $13 million in 2021 to a mere $2 million in 2022. This drop is discussed in the context of the couple's alleged minimal involvement in the charity's day-to-day operations, suggesting they contribute as little as one hour per week.
The Invictus Games, a cornerstone project for Prince Harry, also come under scrutiny. The documentary points out the extensive funding required for these events, including a significant €40 million contributed by Germany's Ministry of Defence for the games in Dusseldorf. Upcoming games in Birmingham are also discussed with a focus on the substantial costs involved.
Criticism extends to Prince Harry's decision to publicly disclose in his book the number of Taliban fighters he killed, which commentators in the film argue could potentially make him a target. This part of the documentary examines the implications of such revelations for his and his family's safety.
Jack Royston offers a perspective on the couple's financial gains post-'Megxit,' noting the potential conflict between profiting from their Royal status while still presenting themselves as dedicated public servants. This critique aligns with Angela Levin's commentary, which recalls the late Queen's disapproval of using Royal positions for personal profit.
The documentary includes opinions from various experts and neighbors who discuss the couple's highly orchestrated public appearances. Consequently, these discussions raise questions about the authenticity of their interactions with the public and the media.
Dr. Ulrike Grunewald and Dai Davies express concerns about the operational inefficiencies and strategic missteps surrounding the couple's charitable activities and public statements. As a result, their insights contribute to a broader narrative of skepticism about the couple's ability to manage their philanthropic and public engagements effectively.
In conclusion, the German documentary "Harry: The Lost Prince" explores the complexities and controversies surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's post-Royal life. By juxtaposing their high-profile charity work with their private indulgence in luxury and the strategic handling of their public image, the film ultimately invites viewers to scrutinize the authenticity and impact of the Sussexes' endeavors.
