Prince Harry's nomination for the Pat Tillman Award has ignited significant controversy.
A blind item on a gossip site, Sedana, suggests that Disney is reconsidering his ESPY award due to allegations of evidence destruction. Given that Disney owns 80% of ESPN, their decision could be influenced by these claims. However, many believe the award should be reconsidered for other reasons, such as Harry not deserving it.
Critics argue that he is being honored for his service despite abandoning his own charities, such as refusing to help the Invictus Games, demonstrating a lack of commitment. Awarding him for service is seen as hypocritical, given his failures in personal roles and neglecting his duty to the Royal Marines. The media has not highlighted this hypocrisy sufficiently.
Angela Levin, a royal commentator, mentioned how much the military meant to Harry but did not emphasize his failure to show up when needed. It seems he wanted the prestige without the responsibilities. Interestingly, there is a connection between the Tillman Foundation and Meghan Markle. Marie Tillman, Pat Tillman's widow, remarried and co-founded the foundation, serving on the board with her second husband, Joe Shinton. Marie attended a 2023 fundraiser for Lurie Children's Hospital alongside Genevieve Hillis, Markle's college friend. Both women move in similar circles, with Hillis being a conservative lobbyist in Chicago, a city where paths are likely to cross.
Marie is a successful businesswoman, speaker, and activist—attributes Markle might find beneficial for her brand. Marie previously owned a children's clothing store, similar to a business concept Markle is interested in. Markle filed a trademark for TIG Tots, indicating a desire to sell curated boxes for children's clothing. The Pat Tillman Foundation could align with Markle's strategy of building legitimacy by associating with reputable figures like Marie Tillman. Joe Shinton also serves on the board of Lurie Children's Hospital, further connecting these influential circles.
ESPN explained that they chose to honor Prince Harry for his positive impact on the veteran community through the Invictus Games. However, a petition urging ESPN to reconsider their decision claims Harry's controversies question his suitability for such an honor. The controversy, including allegations of destroyed evidence and abandoning charitable commitments, has led many to question the appropriateness of the award. Critics argue that his actions contradict the spirit of the Pat Tillman Award, meant to honor those with a strong connection to sports and service, reflecting Pat Tillman's legacy as an NFL player and US Army Ranger. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen if ESPN will stand by their decision or succumb to the growing pressure to revoke the nomination.
