Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s recent appearance at the Sundance Film Festival has reignited debate around the dynamics of their public and professional partnership. While the couple appeared relaxed and united as they promoted their latest documentary project, some royal commentators have questioned the motivations behind their highly visible joint outing.
One author, in particular, has suggested the Duke of Sussex is increasingly taking cues from his wife as she navigates what the author describes as waning public approval.
Meghan Markle wants Prince Harry near as she gets ‘less and less popular,’ says Author
The claims stem from commentary surrounding the Sussexes’ trip to Utah, where they attended multiple Sundance Film Festival events to support “Cookie Queens,” a documentary about Girl Scouts that they executive-produced through Archewell Productions. While the couple smiled for cameras and greeted attendees together, royal author Angela Levin alleged that the appearance was a calculated move rather than a coincidence.
Speaking on Kevin O’Sullivan’s TalkTV show, Levin claimed Meghan’s popularity has declined in recent years. According to the author, this prompted the duchess to keep Prince Harry close during high-profile appearances. “She’s getting less and less popular. So she now wants Harry near her,” Levin alleged. She added that the prince “does what his wife wants him to do” and is eager to keep her happy.
Levin further alleged that Prince Harry’s presence helps draw attention to Meghan’s projects, suggesting that his royal status still commands public interest. According to her claims, Meghan relies on that visibility to encourage audiences to engage with causes, projects, or initiatives tied to their brand. She also suggested Meghan appeared to receive less attention than Harry during parts of the Sundance weekend.
The Sussexes attended the world premiere of “Cookie Queens” at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Centre in Salt Lake City before making a second appearance the next morning at the Eccles Theatre in Park City. Dressed casually for the winter weather, the pair posed for photos with the film’s cast and crew, as well as Sundance leadership.
Addressing the audience, Meghan thanked attendees for their support and praised the documentary’s young subjects. “My husband and I and our Archewell Productions, we are so proud and privileged to be able to support and uplift ‘Cookie Queens,’” she said.
