Prince Harry's latest attempt to solidify his global presence has taken an unexpected hit, thanks to sharp criticism from Canadian actress Pamela Anderson.
During her appearance on The Graham Norton Show, the Baywatch star did not hold back when discussing Harry’s speech at the 2025 Invictus Games opening ceremony. Anderson’s pointed remarks ignited controversy, sparking a wave of backlash and raising fresh questions about Harry’s role in the event and his connection to Canada.
Anderson’s critique was particularly cutting, labeling Harry’s speech as tone-deaf and disrespectful to Canadians. Her statement, "Vancouver is not your home," struck a nerve, amplifying growing frustrations over Harry’s repeated attempts to associate himself with places where he has neither an official role nor widespread support. Her biting response reignited debates about his relevance in Canada and his ongoing efforts to rebrand himself on the global stage.
Harry had intended his speech at the Invictus Games to be a powerful demonstration of leadership and resilience, a moment of triumph as he opened the event in Vancouver. Instead, it backfired, turning into a public relations disaster. Once shielded by the privileges of royal life, Harry now struggles to command the same level of respect without the backing of Buckingham Palace. His comments about feeling at home in Canada immediately drew skepticism, appearing to many as an attempt to claim a country that has made it clear it has no interest in financially supporting his lifestyle.
Anderson’s blunt words reflected a growing sentiment among Canadians who are increasingly frustrated by Harry’s attempts to insert himself into their national conversation. Her statement quickly went viral, with many supporting her assertion that Harry, despite having no official ties to Canada, continues to overstep by speaking as if he represents the nation. A Canadian commentator summed up the frustration succinctly: "Harry spent a few weeks here in 2020, and now he's talking like he has deep roots in Canada. Give me a break." Others pointed out the irony of a man who once had immense global influence now struggling to find a place where he is truly embraced.
What was meant to be an uplifting speech about unity and perseverance ended up widening the divide between Harry and the people he was addressing. This is not the first time he has found himself at odds with public sentiment. His efforts to position himself as a global statesman have often been met with skepticism, and the Invictus Games—a project he once took great pride in building—has now been overshadowed by the controversy surrounding him. Even some veterans, the very individuals the event was created to honor, have expressed frustration that Harry’s personal drama is once again dominating the conversation. Instead of celebrating the athletes’ resilience, headlines have focused on yet another controversy surrounding Harry.
The choice of Vancouver as the host city for the 2025 Invictus Games had already been a source of contention. Many Canadians still remember the backlash over the security costs incurred during Harry and Meghan’s brief stay in the country before relocating to the United States. Anderson’s remarks have reignited those frustrations, with many questioning why Harry continues to involve himself in Canadian affairs.
As the fallout from his speech continues, one thing is clear: Prince Harry’s efforts to reinvent himself on the global stage are facing mounting challenges. Pamela Anderson’s unfiltered critique has shed light on a growing sentiment that his presence in Canada is neither necessary nor welcomed. For a man who was once one of the most beloved royals, the path forward appears increasingly uncertain.
