Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have found themselves at the centre of fresh controversy following the release of a German documentary, Harry – The Lost Prince. The programme, which aired last week, critically examines their lives as global charity ambassadors.
According to OK!, the couple feels deeply “hurt” and “betrayed” by its content.
The documentary featured candid insights from various individuals, including former Metropolitan Police security officials, Montecito neighbours critical of Meghan’s lack of local engagement, and an ex-army comrade from Harry’s time in Afghanistan.
According to OK! a source close to the Sussexes said, “Both Meghan and Harry feel the show is yet another one-sided takedown of them and just want it all to stop. It’s like they can’t escape their past and are still being judged on things that happened over five years ago.”
Neighbours and scrutiny in Montecito
The documentary delved into the couple’s Montecito lifestyle, with neighbour Richard Mineards criticising Meghan’s community involvement, stating, “I personally don’t think that Meghan is an asset to our community… She doesn’t really go out or get involved with the community.” Harry was described as more sociable, but his appearances were noted to be rare.
OK! reported that Meghan’s guarded nature stems from past betrayals by close friends and family. The source explained, “Meghan feels safe with Harry, her mum Doria, and the kids. As much as she’d like a larger social circle, she knows she can’t trust many people. It can be lonely, but she believes it’s better than her time in the UK.”
Financial concerns and security risks
The documentary scrutinised the Sussexes’ Archewell Foundation, highlighting a significant drop in donations from $13 million in 2021 to $2 million in 2022. It also alleged that the couple only dedicate an hour per week to charitable activities.
Former Royal Protection Head Dai Davies criticised Harry for revealing details of his military service in his memoir Spare, claiming it made him a “potential target.” Davies also questioned the couple’s foreign trips, including their recent visit to Colombia, suggesting they were “carefully orchestrated.”
Harry addresses persistent rumours
Prince Harry addressed rumours about his marriage during his appearance at The New York Times DealBook Summit. Responding to host Andrew Ross Sorkin’s questions about intense public scrutiny, Harry dismissed speculation about a “professional separation” with Meghan. He joked: “We’ve apparently divorced maybe 10, 12 times as well. It’s just like, what?”
The documentary’s producer, Ulrike Grunewald, offered her perspective, stating that the most damaging revelations about the Royal Family often come directly from Harry or Meghan. She further noted, “The most damaging allegations can only come from within.”