At the 2024 DealBook Summit in New York, Prince Harry directly addressed the ongoing speculation about his marriage to Meghan Markle, quashing divorce rumours with a mix of humor and honesty. His remarks highlighted the relentless media attention surrounding the couple and his determination to protect his family amidst it all.
Tackling Divorce Speculation Head-On
During the event, Prince Harry spoke candidly about the persistent rumours of marital discord, fueled by their separate public appearances in recent months. In a lighthearted exchange, when asked about the media frenzy surrounding their relationship, Harry quipped, “Because you invited me, you should have known this was going to happen!”
He also humorously referenced the media's exaggerated claims about their lives, saying, “Apparently we’ve bought or moved house 10, 12 times. We’ve apparently divorced maybe 10, 12 times as well. So it’s just like, what?” While his tone was playful, it underscored his frustration with the false narratives perpetuated by tabloids.
Harry further shared his approach to handling such misinformation: “It’s hard to keep up with, but that’s why you just sort of ignore it.” He empathized with those spreading the rumours, calling them “trolls” and remarking, “Their hopes are just built and built, and it’s like, ‘Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes,’ and then it doesn’t happen. So I feel sorry for them. Genuinely, I do.”
Safety Concerns and Media Scrutiny
Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020 and relocating to California, Harry and Meghan have faced relentless media scrutiny. Harry emphasized the dangers this attention poses, particularly to his family’s safety. “It’s still dangerous,” he said, referencing threats like knives or acid attacks. He added, “It’s one of the reasons why I won’t bring my wife back to this country.”
These safety concerns have led Harry and Meghan to shield their children, Archie and Lilibet, from the intense media environment in the UK. The couple remains dedicated to creating a secure and private life for their family.
Focused on Family and Philanthropy
Amidst the chaos, Harry and Meghan continue to prioritize their philanthropic efforts through the Archewell Foundation, focusing on social causes and maintaining a sense of normalcy for their children. Despite the challenges, they have demonstrated a united front, committed to their family and values.
A Strong Bond Despite Rumours
Prince Harry’s candid remarks at the DealBook Summit reaffirmed his and Meghan’s resilience in the face of unrelenting media speculation. While tabloids may continue to fuel rumours, the couple remains focused on their family, their safety, and their mission to make a positive impact through their charitable work.