Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s popularity officially plummeting as Royal rankings reveal the truth, and they won’t be happy with who’s #1

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s popularity appears to be dwindling despite their ongoing charitable efforts and candid discussions about the difficulties they faced as members of the royal family. According to a YouGov poll conducted in the third quarter of 2024, Harry’s approval rating has dropped to 27 percent, a decline from 34 percent in June, while Meghan’s score has fallen to 23 percent—down from eight points higher just a few months prior. This decline is not surprising given the media’s portrayal of Meghan as a “black widow,” suggesting she exploited Harry’s vulnerabilities.

YouGov, which bases its popularity scores on millions of responses from the British public and uses a methodology backed by the Pew Research Center, indicates that the couple ranks among the least liked royals. In contrast, Queen Elizabeth II retains a high popularity rating at 77 percent, followed closely by Kate Middleton at 73 percent. Active royals who remain loyal to the institution and continue participating in public events dominate the top ranks.

Several factors may contribute to Harry and Meghan’s declining popularity. Their vocal criticism of royal life has likely unsettled a British public that values decorum and respectability. Since their exit from royal duties and relocation to the U.S., they’ve been attending events separately, trying to establish their individual identities, which may further distance them from royal expectations. Negative press narratives often paint them as the villains, especially in comparison to the generally favorable reception of Prince William and Kate.

Their choice to step away from a lifestyle they found detrimental to their mental health could also play a role in their unpopularity. While some may sympathize with their struggles, it seems that public sentiment often leans toward a more traditional view of resilience, where suffering is seen as a prerequisite for respect. As such, Harry and Meghan are viewed as the “black sheep” of the royal family, with public perceptions shaped by a blend of their own actions and the media’s portrayal.

In the realm of celebrity culture, where rankings of popularity and public perception are common, Harry and Meghan appear to be focusing on their business ventures and charitable endeavors rather than engaging in a popularity contest. However, the ongoing negative press may have an emotional impact, and the couple’s efforts to redefine their image will likely continue to be scrutinized by a public that still holds strong opinions about royal family dynamics.