Can Prince Harry Overcome Years of Controversy and Rebuild His UK Popularity?
Since making the unprecedented decision to step back from his senior royal duties in 2020, Prince Harry has found himself at the centre of intense public scrutiny, resulting in a dramatic decline in his popularity amongst the British public. The Duke of Sussex, alongside his wife Meghan Markle, relocated to California to build a new life, a move that fundamentally altered his standing in the eyes of his homeland. However, recent developments suggest a potential shift in the tide.
The initial drop in favourability was stark. A YouGov survey conducted in January 2020, shortly after the couple’s announcement, revealed a significant fall in Harry’s approval rating from a robust 72 percent in November 2019 down to 55 percent. The British public, deeply invested in the monarchy, appeared to react strongly to this departure from tradition. The subsequent years did little to repair the damage. Instead, a series of high-profile revelations and accusations against the Royal Family further eroded his standing.
The couple’s tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2021, their Netflix docuseries in 2022, and the explosive release of Harry’s memoir, “Spare,” in early 2023, systematically detailed their struggles and aired deeply personal grievances. These public disclosures, while arguably offering their perspective, severely impacted public perception in the UK. By January 2023, Harry’s approval rating had plummeted to an all-time low of just 24 percent, a far cry from the immense popularity he once enjoyed.
Despite this prolonged period of decline, recent polling data indicates a subtle but notable upward trend, suggesting that the public’s perception of the Duke may be softening. This shift appears to coincide with tentative steps toward mending fractured family ties, particularly his relationship with his father, King Charles.
A YouGov poll conducted in July captured this modest resurgence. This survey was carried out shortly after a private meeting between Harry and the King at Highgrove. The Duke was in the UK to promote the one-year countdown to the 2027 Invictus Games, scheduled to take place in Birmingham. The meeting, which reportedly included Meghan Markle and their children, Archie and Lilibet, marked a significant moment – the first time the King had seen his grandchildren since 2022. While the Palace maintained strict privacy, releasing no photos or details, the very occurrence of this reunion seems to have resonated with the public.
The impact was evident in the numbers. Harry’s popularity rating rose to 33 percent, a noticeable improvement from the 30 percent recorded in an April poll, and a steady six percent increase since May 2025. While this represents a positive trajectory, it is crucial to acknowledge that a substantial 58 percent of respondents still hold a negative view of the Duke, underscoring the enduring challenge he faces in winning back widespread support.
Looking ahead, the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham could prove to be a pivotal moment in this ongoing narrative. Reports suggest that Harry is eager for a public appearance alongside King Charles at the event. Organisers are purportedly planning to invite the King to participate in the ceremonies or attend sporting events to meet the competitors. A united front on such a prominent stage could serve as a powerful symbol of reconciliation and potentially accelerate the recovery of Harry’s public image.
A source close to the royals highlighted Harry’s apparent desire for a renewed connection with his family and his home country. The source noted that the past few years have been deeply emotional for the Duke, and he is now actively seeking to spend more time in the UK and foster closer ties with his relatives. The potential attendance of the King at the Invictus Games is viewed as a monumental opportunity, not just for the success of the event, but for the family dynamics as well. The source emphasised Harry’s determination to ensure the success of the Birmingham Games and his earnest hope for his family, especially the King, to be by his side.
However, this potential path to redemption is not without its detractors. A segment of royal observers remains skeptical, maintaining the view that having relinquished his royal duties, the Duke should not be involved in matters perceived as royal in nature.
The coming months will be critical in determining whether this recent uptick in popularity is a fleeting moment or the beginning of a sustained recovery for Prince Harry in the UK. His actions, and the evolving dynamic with the Royal Family, will undoubtedly continue to be closely watched by a public that remains deeply fascinated by this complex and unfolding royal saga.
