Prince Harry's Uncertain Future after Tell-Alls and Widespread Backlash

Prince Harry is facing an uncertain future after a series of tell-alls, including a sit-down with Oprah Winfrey, a six-part Netflix docuseries, and a memoir. Royal experts weigh in on the backlash he has received and speculate on the implications for his reputation and career.

Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, has found himself in the midst of a whirlwind of controversy following the release of a series of tell-alls that have shed light on his personal life and relationship with the royal family. Royal experts are now questioning the future of the prince, given the widespread backlash he has faced.

Nick Bullen, co-founder of True Royalty TV, believes that Harry needs to focus on his future after the tell-alls, which have undoubtedly had a significant impact on his reputation. "After a sit-down with Oprah Winfrey, a six-part Netflix docuseries, and a memoir, the Duke of Sussex needs to focus on his future," Bullen told Fox News Digital.

Prince Harry's Uncertain Future after Tell-Alls and Widespread Backlash

Hilary Fordwich, a British royals expert, agrees with Bullen's assessment. She believes that Harry's decision to accept the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2024 ESPY Awards, despite facing furious backlash, "tangibly shows how his popularity has plummeted." Fordwich also cited comments from Admiral Lord Alan West, Former Royal Navy Chief and Labour peer, who said that Harry should "think very hard and long" about accepting the award, as it "doesn't travel well with people in the military." West further advised Harry to "sit back and not accept awards like this."

However, not everyone shares this perspective. Christopher Andersen, author of "The King," believes that Harry was not at fault for being offered the award. "It's not Harry's fault that he was offered the Pat Tillman Award. What was he supposed to do? Turn it down? How tacky would that have been?" Andersen said. He added that Harry is "so proud of his military service and Invictus that it's no wonder he is stunned by the backlash."

Prince Harry's Uncertain Future after Tell-Alls and Widespread Backlash

Andersen believes that Harry's legacy on Invictus, his work with wounded veterans, and his genuine care for the community are what should be recognized, not the controversies surrounding him.

Despite the backlash, Harry reportedly has no plans to turn down the award. A source told the Telegraph that Harry was "stunned" by the criticism and that it was "a bitter pill to swallow." The source added that Harry is deeply passionate about his work with Invictus and that the reaction has taken the shine off the award.

Prince Harry's Uncertain Future after Tell-Alls and Widespread Backlash

The announcement of Harry's award also raised eyebrows when Mary Tillman, the late hero's mother, claimed she was never consulted about the decision. "I am shocked as to why they would select such a controversial and divisive individual to receive the award," Mary Tillman told the UK's DailyMail. "There are individuals working in the veteran community that are doing tremendous things to assist veterans."

ESPN, with the support of the Tillman Foundation, has defended its decision to honor Harry, citing his work with The Invictus Games Foundation and its promotion of healing for military service members and veterans worldwide.

Prince Harry's Uncertain Future after Tell-Alls and Widespread Backlash

Other veterans and experts have also voiced their support for Harry. Jake Wood, a U.S. Marine who won the award in 2018, told TMZ that Harry is a "natural fit" for the honor due to his military background and work with veterans. Air Force Master Sgt. Israel Del Toro Jr., who won the award in 2017, also told the outlet that Harry is worthy of the honor.

Royal expert Ian Pelham Turner believes that the blowback Harry has faced seems unfair given his history as a soldier with a distinguished war record in Afghanistan. Turner said Harry should receive the award and that Mary Tillman should apologize for her comments.

Prince Harry's Uncertain Future after Tell-Alls and Widespread Backlash

Despite the controversy, it remains to be seen how much this will ultimately hurt the reputation of the Invictus Games. Some veterans have called for Harry to step down from the Games, claiming they have become "too royal." However, it is unlikely that Harry will step down from his role in Invictus, which he considers to be his legacy.

Harry's relationship with the royal family has been strained since he stepped down from royal duties in 2020 and moved to California with his wife, Meghan Markle. The couple has accused the British media of relentless intrusions and racism, which they say prompted their move.

Prince Harry's Uncertain Future after Tell-Alls and Widespread Backlash

The Duke of Sussex's uncertain future remains a topic of speculation and debate. Only time will tell how he navigates the controversies and challenges he faces in the years to come.