Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have once again managed to insert themselves into the spotlight with yet another video appearance—this time aimed at the inaugural Global Ministerial Conference on Violence Against Children, held in Colombia.
However, there’s a small catch: they weren’t even invited. But as we’ve come to expect from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, an invitation is merely a suggestion, not a rule. This latest display of self-promotion, although virtual, came on November 7th, with the couple appearing in the video wearing poppy pins in observance of Remembrance Day—a somewhat ironic touch considering the casual, front-porch setting of their filming location, which resembled a typical afternoon Instagram live session.
Don’t be fooled by the poppies or the serious tone of their message; these were clearly props to create the illusion of gravitas. Their video was ostensibly part of a larger crusade against digital violence targeting children—a noble cause, to be sure, if it weren’t so obviously another opportunity for them to grab attention. Meghan opened the video by speaking about "today’s reality," highlighting the increased connectivity and advanced technology that, in layman's terms, means "we’re all more online than ever." Harry, naturally, chimed in with his signature ponderous remarks about being "at a crossroads." We get it, Harry—everyone's at a crossroads, especially when your speech makes us wonder whether it's time to mute the conversation.
This broadcast appears to be their attempt to remind the public that the Archewell Foundation, their charity, still exists. Yes, that charity—a concept as elusive as a unicorn riding a rainbow. The couple talked about "engaging with young people and families," but anyone familiar with their history knows this most likely means another podcast episode where they talk about how they’re talking to people. After all, why actually do the work when you can just talk about it, all while making sure the camera catches your best angles?
Speaking of appearances, it’s hard to ignore the noticeable changes in Meghan’s face since her last public outing. Her jawline appears sharper, her lips fuller, and her teeth? Well, they finally seem to fit her mouth. Meghan has been lying low recently, perhaps giving time for her latest "enhancements" to settle. Observers were quick to note the timing of this video release—could it have been strategically planned during Prince William’s Earthshot Prize week? It’s no coincidence. The Sussexes have never been shy about seizing any opportunity to overshadow the actual working royals. Their surprise appearance feels like a desperate attempt to remain relevant, constantly seeking the spotlight.
This isn't even the first time they've tried to gatecrash Colombia. In August, they reportedly visited the country at the invitation of the Colombian vice president, but once again, their presence went largely unnoticed. The irony of their current video, in which they harp on about the dangers of digital violence and the importance of online safety, is hard to miss. After all, the biggest threat many of us face online is yet another preachy, self-congratulatory video from them. The hypocrisy is glaring; they talk about providing solutions but seem to offer nothing more than empty platitudes. Their message revolves around "harnessing the moment and driving change," but when it comes to delivering actual results, they are as empty-handed as the charity bank accounts they so often reference.
This isn't the first time Meghan has tried to make herself the center of attention in situations where she wasn’t invited. You might recall a similar incident at a high school graduation, where Meghan filmed herself delivering an address and posted it online, making it seem as though she was the star of the event. It’s clear that crashing events has become something of an art form for this couple. They're the uninvited guests who refuse to leave, except instead of helping with the hors d'oeuvres, they're taking center stage and grabbing all the attention.
The latest video is a textbook example of how to say a lot without actually saying anything at all. But don’t worry, they’ll be back soon, no doubt with another episode of "Look at Us," filled with more hollow rhetoric and empty promises.
