Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry have embarked on a road to redemption and rehabilitation, an expert has said, after realising they have “overdone” their “victim card”. The Duchess, 42, recently starred in an advert for US-based coffee brand Clevr, in which she played a “nerdy intern”, and appeared in the background of several scenes while completing menial tasks.
The appearance set the internet alight – with both supporters and critics commenting on the video – and led to speculation about her and Prince Harry’s future, namely how they plan to rebuild their reputation.
Experts have said the cheerier appearance shows a shift to a more positive outlook for the couple, with their focus moving away from controversy.
One royal observer has said the couple is aware that they need to “not just live off criticising the royal family”.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, royal expert Phil Dampier said the Duchess of Sussex is “not a stupid person”, and aware of the kind of publicity she and Prince Harry attract.
Mr Dampier said: “I think she realises that she and Harry have overdone the victim card.
“She is also being advised by new PR people and I’m sure they have said they need to be more positive and not just live off criticising the royal family.”
The predicted shift in their focus would kick off what insiders have termed a “year of redemption”.
One insider close to the couple said: “Harry and Meghan think 2024 will be the year of redemption.”
The Duchess’ latest appearance behind the camera is one of several jobs she has reportedly been offered.
The source added that she has had to turn down jobs, with Prince Harry also in “extremely high demand” despite recent controversies.
While the couple is tipped to move on from their usual focuses, the headlines likely won’t change anytime soon.
The Duchess’ advert was hailed as more positive by many, but some critics have said it signals her career is in decline rather than lifting off.
Writing for the Evening Standard, Melanie McDonagh said she was “reduced to an extra in an Instagram ad”, something she did not have in mind “when she cut her husband loose from the Royal Family”.
She added: “She intended to monetise her title and royal husband, and it’s turned out to be harder than she thought.
“The only way is down from here, in a career that has been characterised by ruthless upward mobility.”
