Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Slammed for ‘Phony Royal Tour’ — Public Not Buying It

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are once again at the center of controversy. This time, their headline-making trip to Australia has critics saying the couple is “pretending to be royals” even though they stepped back from official duties years ago.

The couple recently finished a multi-day visit that many people thought looked a lot like a traditional royal tour. They greeted crowds, attended public events, and even walked along Bondi Beach, seeming to embrace the same spotlight they once said they were leaving.

“Half-In, Half-Out” But Without Permission

When Harry and Meghan stepped down as senior royals in 2020, they reportedly hoped to find a balance by continuing some royal duties while also pursuing private ventures. Queen Elizabeth II famously rejected that idea, making it clear that being a working royal could not be a part-time job.

Now, some experts say the couple has found a way around those restrictions. “They don’t need palace approval anymore,” one commentator suggested. “Harry will always be Diana’s son. He’ll always draw attention.”

Much of the public’s interest in Harry still comes from Princess Diana’s legacy, which continues to shape how people see him around the world.

Celebrity or Royalty Lite?

During the trip, Meghan hosted a women’s empowerment-style event and made a guest appearance on MasterChef Australia, where she was introduced as the “Duchess of Sussex.”

That moment reportedly caused some internal frustration, even though critics say her title is exactly what keeps her relevant.

“The only reason she is on these platforms is her royal connection,” one insider claimed. “That is the brand.”

The appearance also added to a broader criticism: Harry and Meghan act more like celebrities than former royals. The Sussexes are using attention, crowds, and media coverage in ways that blur the line between public service and personal branding.

Following the Spotlight

Throughout the tour, people gathered to see the couple, which supporters say shows they are still popular. But critics are not convinced.

“They’re not unique in attracting crowds,” one media voice argued. “Any major celebrity could do the same. The difference is, they’re the only ones still trying to present it as diplomacy.”

This view has led some to accuse the couple of focusing more on appearances than on making a real impact with their tour.

Controversy at Bondi Beach

The couple’s visit to Bondi Beach drew particular scrutiny, with some calling the stop “tone-deaf” given recent tragic events in the area.

Adding to the backlash, Meghan later shared details about her outfit from the event. While this is common among influencers, critics said it was poorly timed in this situation.

A New Direction for Harry?

Meanwhile, Harry is allegedly exploring a new phase: the world of self-help and mental health advocacy. After the success of his memoir Spare, experts believe publishers are eager for a follow-up, possibly focused on self-improvement and mental toughness.

He has talked more often about therapy and trauma, especially about losing his mother, Princess Diana. Still, not everyone is understanding.

“Turning personal struggles into a brand is not always a good look,” one critic said. “Especially when it becomes a recurring theme.”

What is Next?

Despite the backlash, there is little sign that the Sussexes plan to slow down. Some observers think similar tours could happen in other countries, especially where Harry’s royal connections still attract a lot of attention.

For now, one thing is clear: whether people see them as global influencers, controversial figures, or “part-time royals,” Harry and Meghan are still in the spotlight, and they know how to stay there.