Public Sentiment on Meghan Markle Sours: New Poll Indicates 75% Disapproval in the UK
A recent poll conducted by Ipsos for The Mail on Sunday has cast a spotlight on Meghan Markle’s waning popularity in the United Kingdom. The survey results, coinciding with the first anniversary of King Charles’ Coronation, reveal a stark disapproval of the Duchess of Sussex, with a significant 75% of Brits holding an unfavorable view of her.
Despite most members of the Royal Family experiencing a rise in approval ratings, Meghan’s figures have remained low. In contrast, Prince Harry, though slightly more favored, still struggles with only 31% of the population viewing him positively. The couple, however, seems to have retained some appeal among the younger British populace, with 42% of 18 to 34-year-olds and 49% of the same age group approving of Harry, reported by GB News.
The survey also highlighted a unique public opinion: one in three respondents believe Prince Harry should consider resuming his full-time royal duties temporarily, especially as King Charles and the Princess of Wales navigate through health issues, suggesting a yearning for stability in the monarchy during tumultuous times.
King Charles himself has seen a favorable uptick in public perception, with 56% approving of his performance as the monarch. Meanwhile, the Prince and Princess of Wales lead the popularity charts with an impressive 69% approval rating. In stark contrast, Prince Andrew remains deeply unpopular, with only 12.5% support from the public.
The poll, which surveyed 2,166 British adults, also reflects a strong majority in favor of maintaining the monarchy, although a quarter of respondents expressed a preference for a republic. Additionally, skepticism about the authenticity of official royal images is on the rise, particularly among younger demographics.
Gideon Skinner of Ipsos noted, “As the King returns to public duties, he is greeted by a further boost in favourability ratings for himself and other core members of the Royal Family. The question for the monarchy is whether this is a short-term improvement driven by a swell in public sympathy or whether it can be maintained – particularly among younger generations where the Royals need to focus their engagement efforts.”
In the midst of these findings, Meghan Markle has opted out of attending a significant event at St Paul’s Cathedral marking the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games, choosing instead to meet Prince Harry in Nigeria for an official visit right after the event. Royal commentator Richard Eden speculates that her decision may stem from a reluctance to face a potentially unwelcoming crowd, remarking on Palace Confidential, “She does not want to return to Britain in a hurry. There are many people here who won’t be sad about that. Meghan will be wary of getting booed at St Paul’s.”