A recent opinion poll conducted for Newsweek has shown a further decline
in the popularity of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry in the United States. The
survey suggests that Prince Harry's approval ratings have experienced a
significant drop, coinciding with discussions surrounding his controversial
memoir, "Spare."
The poll indicates that in the first quarter of 2023, Prince Harry was liked
by 46 percent of Americans, down from 52 percent in the last quarter of 2022.
Meanwhile, 26 percent of Americans expressed their disapproval, resulting in a
net approval rating of 20 for Prince Harry.
Meghan Markle's popularity also saw a decrease, with 36 percent of Americans
expressing their approval, a two-point drop compared to the previous quarter.
Despite this decline, her disapproval rating remained at 24 percent, allowing
her to maintain a positive net approval rating of 12 percent.
This decrease in the couple's popularity appears to coincide with the release
of their docu-series on Netflix and the subject of ridicule by several US
comedians. Prince Harry's personal experiences, such as references to his
frostbite incident, struggles with substance use, and relationship with the
press, became the target of late-night talk shows. The release of Prince
Harry's memoir, "Spare," and the airing of their Netflix docuseries, "Harry
& Meghan," also seem to have contributed to the decline in their support
among Americans.
The poll also suggests a slight decrease in the approval ratings of two other
prominent members of the Royal Family, Prince William and Kate Middleton.
Prince William's approval rating dropped to 43 percent in the first quarter of
2023, down by three percent from the previous quarter, while Kate Middleton's
support remained at 45 percent, reflecting a one-point decrease. However, the
Princess of Wales maintained a strong net approval rating of plus 36, with
only nine percent of Americans expressing their disapproval.
The future trajectory of Meghan and Harry's popularity in the US remains
uncertain, and they may need to work to repair their image, especially as
their Netflix deal continues to generate headlines and stir controversy.
