Have you heard the latest headlines predicting Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s inevitable divorce?
It’s such a strange part of our culture, the ways we act like the voyeur into celebrities’ private lives, by prescribing meaning to a lack of hand-holding at an event connected to what may go on behind closed doors in the privacy of their marriage.
Since they started dating, their relationship has been producing a steady stream of headlines and also igniting important conversations about acceptance, diversity, and inclusion.
Prince Harry, having grown up in the spotlight as a member of the royal family, witnessed firsthand the harsh treatment and intrusion of the media into his mother, Princess Diana’s life.
The relentless pursuit of sensational headlines and paparazzi frenzy ultimately played a significant role in her early and tragic death. It is understandable that witnessing all of this as a child with his beloved mom would deeply affect him.
Sadly we all witnessed history repeat itself as Meghan became a subject of constant tabloid speculation and critical headlines. The press hounded her, invaded her privacy, and spread misinformation, which undoubtedly took a toll on her mental and emotional well-being along with their marriage.
For Prince Harry, these parallels must have been eerily familiar, as he saw the woman he loved facing the same pressures and challenges that his mother endured.
The memories of his mother’s struggles likely fueled his commitment to creating a different path for his own family. This decision risked his belonging to the royal family, essentially being cut out for making the decision with what he felt would keep Meghan and their children safe.
The negativity surrounding his decision to step back from royal duties and distance themselves from the relentless media spotlight could not be ignored. The media seemed to be all about judgment and blame along with a complete disconnection from the past with the same level of intrusion and harassment that ended his mother’s life early.
The similarities between Meghan and Diana’s situations highlighted the impact of media on mental health, recognizing the toll it can take on individuals and their loved ones. Through their experiences, Harry has become an advocate for media reform, mental health awareness, and responsible reporting.
Have you ever had to make a choice that risked your belonging in your family or circle of friends?
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