Meghan Markle 'prepares for relaunch in UK': Duchess 'has reached out to British PR gurus' for help as she battles a 'popularity problem' in Britain

Meghan Markle is seeking a UK-based PR expert to assist in bolstering her and Prince Harry's public image, particularly in Britain, where they hope to gain more positive publicity for themselves and for Archewell, their foundation based in California.

Prince Harry and Meghan are pictured on their trip to Vancouver last month ahead of next year's Invictus Games. MailOnline understands they are looking for a UK PR expert to help them

The potential return of Meghan's lifestyle blog, The Tig, has fueled speculation, especially following the success of Gwyneth Paltrow's GOOP brand. This move could further enhance Meghan's presence and influence, but it also underscores the need for effective PR support to navigate the media landscape and shape public perception.

The decision by Meghan Markle to search for a UK PR executive is seen by some as a signal that the Sussexes are gearing up for a relaunch in 2024, with a focus on increasing their presence and activities in Prince Harry's home country. However, this endeavor may face challenges, as indicated by the skepticism of some senior PR professionals who doubt the couple's willingness to heed advice.

The Susssexes were mocked and humiliated in an episode of South Park last year where a prince and his wife went on a 'worldwide privacy tour'

The statement from the London-based PR executive reflects concerns about the Sussexes' reputation for not being receptive to counsel, which could potentially hinder any PR efforts aimed at improving their public image in the UK.

The narrative also highlights the mixed reception the couple has received in recent years, citing examples such as Prince Harry's memoir and the criticism they faced for their public statements and actions. Despite their global popularity, particularly evident through the success of Harry's memoir, their relationships and endeavors have faced scrutiny and backlash.

In March 2021, the Sussexes appeared on Oprah following 'Megxit' and alleged that some members of the royal family questioned 'how dark [Archie's] skin might be when he's born'. It caused major ructions and led to Prince William having to deny the Royal Family is racist

Prince Harry's upcoming return to the UK for a St Paul's Cathedral service to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games anniversary in May further emphasizes the significance of their ties to Britain, despite their relocation to California. However, it remains to be seen how their efforts to reconnect with the British public and media will unfold, especially in light of the challenges and criticisms they have faced.

The insider's perspective reveals that Meghan Markle and Prince Harry view the current state of the British monarchy, particularly with King Charles's slimmed-down monarchy and Prince William supporting Kate after her surgery, as an opportunity for them to increase their presence and impact in the UK. However, PR specialists may be cautious about working with them due to concerns about their willingness to listen to advice, especially considering their past decisions and actions since stepping back from royal duties.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are putting off Americans with their 'endless moans' and 'attacks' on the Royal Family , a royal expert has claimed

The source suggests that the Sussexes perceive a potential vacuum in the British royal landscape that they could fill with their own initiatives and work. Additionally, there are indications that Prince Harry may be interested in resuming some duties on behalf of his father, adding to their motivation to engage more with the UK.

However, the source also notes that the Sussexes face a popularity problem and may not be able to rely on typical American PR strategies, which may involve more aggressive tactics, as these may not be well-received in the UK.

The recent opening of a new wing of an animal charity in the UK underscores Meghan Markle's ongoing commitment to philanthropic efforts in the country, suggesting that they are actively seeking to maintain a presence and make positive contributions despite the challenges they face.

The personal filmed message sent by the Duchess of Sussex in memory of her friend Oli Juste, who introduced her to the Mayhew Trust, underscores Meghan Markle's continued commitment to philanthropic efforts in the UK. Brand and culture expert Nick Ede believes that this appearance reveals Meghan's desire to maintain a presence in the UK and cultivate positive PR. He emphasizes her genuine fondness for the country and its people, as well as her dedication to causes she cares about, such as animal welfare.

Ede suggests that Meghan recognizes the importance of promoting her philanthropic work and presenting a positive image, especially if she intends to engage in promoting lifestyle brands in the UK. He notes that the UK consumer audience values style and fashion, areas where Meghan has garnered attention and admiration.

Meghan's upcoming appearance at the SXSW festival in Texas further demonstrates her commitment to addressing societal issues, particularly regarding social media use and its impact on mental health, particularly among teenage girls. As the headliner of the keynote event on International Women's Day, Meghan's participation highlights her role as a leader and advocate for challenging stereotypes and breaking barriers.

The Duchess of Sussex has been named on a star-studded keynote panel on the opening day of SXSW festival in Texas

Organized by Harry and Meghan's Archewell Foundation in collaboration with The 19th, a US nonprofit newsroom focusing on gender, politics, and policy, the festival's session will address important topics related to social media and mental health, underscoring Meghan's ongoing efforts to effect positive change and inspire others.

The session titled "Breaking Barriers, Shaping Narratives: How Women Lead On and Off the Screen" at the SXSW festival will be moderated by Errin Haines, host of The Amendment podcast, and attended by pop culture expert Nancy Wang Yuen. Meghan Markle, alongside other participants, will discuss the importance of representation in media and entertainment, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by women of color and mothers.

It marks the latest in a string of public appearance for Harry and Meghan in recent weeks, including a trip to Vancouver (pictured)

Brooke Shields, 58, is to appear on the panel alongside Meghan Markle at the festival tomorrow

The organizers emphasized the ongoing need for progress in women's representation in the media and entertainment industries, highlighting the detrimental effects of social media on mental health, particularly for teenage girls. They framed the session as an opportunity to hear from visionary female leaders who are actively working to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and contribute to a healthier society both on and off our screens.

This event comes shortly after claims that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are facing criticism from some Americans for their perceived negative comments and actions towards the Royal Family. Since their departure from royal duties and relocation to the US in January 2020, the couple has been involved in various media projects, including a Netflix docuseries, a controversial website launch, a book release, and interviews discussing their experiences within the Royal Family.

In Spare, Harry alleged the Prince of Wales grabbed him by the collar and threw him to the floor, while shattering a dog bowl with his back

The Sussexes' attempts to integrate into the celebrity world have garnered mixed reactions, particularly concerning their appearances at high-profile events such as the 'Bob Marley: One Love' premiere in Jamaica. They faced criticism for posing with Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness, who advocates for removing the monarchy from Jamaica's governance, leading to accusations of insensitivity.

Additionally, Prince Harry's recent comments regarding King Charles' cancer diagnosis and the potential impact on family unity raised eyebrows, especially amid speculation about Harry's willingness to resume royal duties temporarily. Despite reports suggesting Harry's openness to returning to a royal role, palace aides dismissed such notions, signaling a definitive departure from royal responsibilities.

Royal author Angela Levin highlighted growing discontent, even among Americans, towards the couple's perceived hypocrisy and tendency to blame others. The couple's portrayal in a South Park episode, where they were ridiculed for their contradictions regarding privacy and public exposure, further underscored their challenges with public perception.

Levin emphasized that Americans prefer individuals who are proactive and self-reliant, rather than those who engage in constant complaints. The couple's actions, such as attending events primarily for photo opportunities despite claiming a desire for privacy, have only exacerbated their unpopularity, with Levin suggesting that their chances of redemption may be dwindling.