Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are trying to buy the public’s respect with awards after ESPYS nod, says expert

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have faced criticism from a royal commentator who accused them of "collecting trophies" to "buy the public’s respect." This accusation came after Prince Harry, aged 39, was named the recipient of the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2024 ESPYs. The award recognizes his military experience and his work with the Invictus Games.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been accused of “collecting trophies” to “buy the public’s respect” by a royal commentator.


The decision to honor Prince Harry has been met with mixed reactions. Mary Tillman, the mother of the late Pat Tillman, expressed her disapproval and claimed that she was not consulted about ESPN's decision to give the award to Harry.

Royal expert Kinsey Schofield has criticized Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, alleging that they are "collecting trophies" to "buy the public’s respect." She expressed skepticism over ESPN’s decision to honor Harry with the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2024 ESPYs, suggesting that the public can see through what she perceives as their attempts to gain favorable public relations.

The Duke of Sussex, 39, has been named the recipient of the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2024 ESPYs.

“I see Prince Harry and Meghan Markle accepting more trophies for awards that I don’t understand what they’re for,” Schofield told TalkTV. “I guess they’re trying to buy the public’s respect, they’re trying to buy good PR through networking and creating these opportunities to collect trophies for their mantle, but I think the public sees through these individuals.”

In response to the criticism, ESPN defended their decision to honor Prince Harry. They emphasized his significant contributions through the Invictus Games Foundation, which supports the healing of military service members and veterans through sports. ESPN, in collaboration with the Tillman Foundation, stated, “ESPN, with the support of the Tillman Foundation, is honoring Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, specifically for the work of The Invictus Games Foundation as it celebrates its 10th year promoting healing through the power of sport for military service members and veterans around the world.”

Harry served the British military for 10 years, including two tours in Afghanistan as a helicopter pilot.


The Sussexes have received several awards since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, with some questioning their motivations while others recognize their efforts and impact.

Kinsey Schofield's criticism of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry centers on what she perceives as their pursuit of awards and accolades to enhance their public image. She specifically pointed out Meghan Markle's acceptance of awards for her podcast "Archetypes," which was discontinued after a short run on Spotify. Schofield questioned the significance of these awards and characterized their actions as part of a larger strategy to improve their public perception.

The Sussexes have accumulated a large number of awards since quitting royal life in 2020.


Markle received the People’s Choice Award for “The Pop Podcast of 2022” and was recognized as “a digital media national winner” by the 48th Annual Gracie Awards for her podcast efforts. Alongside these podcast accolades, the Sussexes have amassed numerous other awards since stepping back from royal duties in 2020. This includes the NAACP’s President’s Award and the Ripple of Hope Award from the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization.

Additionally, Meghan Markle received the Women of Vision Award, which led her and Harry to attend a gala in New York City with her mother, Doria Ragland. Their departure from the event was reportedly marred by a "near catastrophic car chase," adding to the event's drama.

Separately, Prince Harry received the Living Legends of Aviation award from John Travolta and was subsequently inducted into the “Living Legend of Aviation” Hall of Fame, highlighting his contributions beyond his royal lineage.

Harry previously received the Living Legends of Aviation award, and was subsequently inducted into the Aviation Hall of Fame.


These awards and recognitions have drawn both admiration and criticism, reflecting differing perspectives on the Sussexes' post-royal endeavors and public engagements.

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