Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are drawing attention for the contrast between their public messages and private business deals.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s Archewell Foundation recently released a report criticizing “profit-driven” social media influencers and promoting role models motivated by causes rather than money.
Following the release of the report, a critic pointed out that the controversial couple’s own commercial projects, including deals with Netflix and Spotify reportedly worth over £91 million, seem to be at odds with their stance.
Archewell's criticisms of others "chime with numerous major criticisms of the couple throughout their post-royal lives,” Jack Royston said.
Meghan’s launch of Instagram to promote her lifestyle projects also added to the backlash with a source saying that the Duchess has “to make money to survive."
Another source told Newsweek, “To cast all young people as though they would take umbrage with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex for making money, is just an oversimplified assessment of who they are as people and what I think that report is trying to say. “
“Young people, as it relates to the brands and the things that they associate with or feel an affinity to, are largely driven by activism.
"It's why young people love Ben and Jerry's. It's why young people love Patagonia. It's why young people love activist-driven brands and if you were to look at Harry and Meghan as an activist-driven brand, which I would argue they are, they focus on showing up, doing good, and handing over a disproportionate amount of their wealth compared to the average Joe to good causes.
“That they have to make money is a moot point. We all do, unless you're a member of the institution (royal family).”
