Prince Harry and Meghan Markle find themselves facing yet another setback as a recent poll reveals a significant decline in their popularity.
While the Sussexes have already weathered unfavorable ratings in recent years, the numbers have taken a more pronounced dip since the passing of the late Queen in September 2022. According to a new Ipsus poll conducted as King Charles and the Princess of Wales recovered from health scares last month, the popularity of Harry and Meghan has dropped even further.
The poll highlights a stark decline in public opinion, with 47% expressing an unfavorable view of Prince Harry, marking a 7% drop from the previous poll in 2023. Only 23% hold a positive opinion of Harry. Similarly, Meghan's popularity has plummeted, with 54% holding an unfavorable opinion and only 18% expressing a positive view—a 5% drop since the last poll. Megan's current ranking represents her lowest point in the past five years, contrasting sharply with the positive light she enjoyed just before marrying the Duke in March 2018.
In contrast, Prince William stands as the most popular royal according to the Ipsus poll. William's positive ranking, at 62%, has remained unchanged since July, while his wife, Katherine, the Princess of Wales, closely follows with a 61% positive ranking. This steadfast popularity underscores the challenges Harry and Meghan face in being welcomed back into the fold by Prince William and Princess Catherine.
Royal commentator Duncan Lham believes that Prince Harry is now attempting to mend fences with his family, especially after his father, King Charles, and sister-in-law, the Princess of Wales, were discharged from the hospital. Lham suggests that the new year could serve as a time of healing for the family. However, he notes that the ongoing tension between Meghan and Kate remains a thorny issue, potentially complicating Harry's efforts to heal the rift.
Recent reports indicate that, following hospitalizations of Katherine and King Charles, the Sussexes reached out to express concern and best wishes. Despite this, a source reveals that the Prince and Princess of Wales have firmly closed the door on any reconciliation with the Sussexes. While Charles remains open to rebuilding his relationship with his son over time, William and Kate seem to have firmly concluded their chapter with Harry and Meghan, indicating a challenging path ahead for any attempts at reconciliation.

