Planned visit described as a ‘faux royal’ tour aimed at boosting the couple’s brand
A royal commentator has cautioned Harry and Meghan Markle ahead of their upcoming trip to Australia, describing the visit as a “faux royal” tour that could irritate the Palace while attracting major publicity.
Speaking to the Daily Express UK, royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams shared his thoughts just days before the couple are expected to travel to Australia next week. According to him, the visit appears designed to strengthen their public profile.
“The Sussexes’ ‘faux royal’ tour to Australia is intended to boost their brand,” Fitzwilliams said, adding that their ability to draw attention remains remarkable. “One thing is undeniable. Their ability to get publicity is extraordinary.”
However, he noted that the situation is very different from their official tour in 2018, when they were still working members of the Royal Family. In contrast, he suggested the upcoming trip raises questions about its purpose.
Fitzwilliams also pointed to Meghan Markle’s planned appearance at what has been described as an all-women Wellness Weekend at the InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach hotel, which he said has already attracted controversy.
Meanwhile, Harry is expected to take part in activities linked to the military and is also scheduled to speak at the Inter Edge Summit on mental health.
“What actually happens will be fascinating,” Fitzwilliams remarked.
The royal expert further warned that the visit could irritate Buckingham Palace, noting that Australia remains one of the King’s realms. He added that the Prince and Princess of Wales had been expected to visit the country at some point, with their last trip taking place in 2014.
Still, Fitzwilliams acknowledged that the couple are already achieving one clear outcome.
“One thing is for certain, they are getting attention,” he said.
In addition, another royal commentator has cautioned the pair about the possible use of their royal titles during the trip. According to OK!, royal expert Robert Jobson suggested the Palace may not welcome the visit but has little ability to stop it.
“I’m sure Buckingham Palace would prefer that Harry and Meghan weren’t going, but there’s not a lot they can do about it. They have no control,” Jobson said.
He added that the visit could lead to confusion over the purpose of the trip and how it relates to the Royal Family.
“There will undoubtedly be a sense of confusion about what Harry and Meghan are there for… this trip may stick in the gullet of the Palace,” he said.
A royal commentator has cautioned Harry and Meghan Markle ahead of their upcoming trip to Australia, describing the visit as a “faux royal” tour that could irritate the Palace while attracting major publicity.
Speaking to the Daily Express UK, royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams shared his thoughts just days before the couple are expected to travel to Australia next week. According to him, the visit appears designed to strengthen their public profile.
“The Sussexes’ ‘faux royal’ tour to Australia is intended to boost their brand,” Fitzwilliams said, adding that their ability to draw attention remains remarkable. “One thing is undeniable. Their ability to get publicity is extraordinary.”
However, he noted that the situation is very different from their official tour in 2018, when they were still working members of the Royal Family. In contrast, he suggested the upcoming trip raises questions about its purpose.
Fitzwilliams also pointed to Meghan Markle’s planned appearance at what has been described as an all-women Wellness Weekend at the InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach hotel, which he said has already attracted controversy.
Meanwhile, Harry is expected to take part in activities linked to the military and is also scheduled to speak at the Inter Edge Summit on mental health.
“What actually happens will be fascinating,” Fitzwilliams remarked.
The royal expert further warned that the visit could irritate Buckingham Palace, noting that Australia remains one of the King’s realms. He added that the Prince and Princess of Wales had been expected to visit the country at some point, with their last trip taking place in 2014.
Still, Fitzwilliams acknowledged that the couple are already achieving one clear outcome.
“One thing is for certain, they are getting attention,” he said.
In addition, another royal commentator has cautioned the pair about the possible use of their royal titles during the trip. According to OK!, royal expert Robert Jobson suggested the Palace may not welcome the visit but has little ability to stop it.
“I’m sure Buckingham Palace would prefer that Harry and Meghan weren’t going, but there’s not a lot they can do about it. They have no control,” Jobson said.
He added that the visit could lead to confusion over the purpose of the trip and how it relates to the Royal Family.
“There will undoubtedly be a sense of confusion about what Harry and Meghan are there for… this trip may stick in the gullet of the Palace,” he said.
