Duchess of Sussex warned against 'exploitative' timing ahead of Harry–Charles reunion
Meghan Markle has come under scrutiny for the timing of her latest product launch, with experts warning that her move could backfire just as speculation builds around a potential reunion between Prince Harry and King Charles.
On July 1, the Duchess of Sussex introduced the first rosé wine under her American Riviera Orchard label — a launch that, while commercially successful, coincided with what would have been Princess Diana's 64th birthday.
The date's significance has sparked concern among royal watchers and branding professionals. Public relations expert Edward Coram-James told Express that the launch timing was unlikely to be coincidental. “Launching a rosé on July 1st, Princess Diana's birthday, is no accident,” he said.
He further noted that the public's emotional connection to Diana's legacy remains strong. “Meghan’s team surely understands how much emotional significance that date holds, especially for British and global audiences who still hold Diana’s legacy close to heart,” Coram-James explained.
However, he has cautioned that the move walks a “fine line,” warning that it risks being seen as exploitative. “Diana isn't just a marketing tool, and the British press and public are quick to call out anything that seems like ‘using’ her memory for personal gain — especially from Harry and Meghan, who are already under intense scrutiny for their media moves.”
The launch also comes as reports suggest that Prince Harry's upcoming Invictus Games event in Birmingham may pave the way for a long-anticipated meeting with his father, King Charles. With royal tensions still lingering, Meghan's timing could complicate public perception as the family navigates a fragile phase of potential reconciliation.
