Meghan Markle defends the new Sussex.com site in response to criticism
Meghan Markle has broken her silence to address the criticism surrounding the new Sussex.com website. The decision by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to relaunch their Archewell website under the name 'Sussex.com' had been met with accusations of trying to assert a more royal image.
Insiders from the royal circle expressed their confusion, stating that the website, created by Canadian agency Article, seemed to blur the lines between the past and the present, as the couple had been instructed to drop their 'Sussex' title in 2020 after stepping down as working royals.
In her statement, Meghan responded to the criticism, emphasizing her long-standing partnership with Article and their meticulous attention to detail, creativity, and thoughtful approach to design and user experience. She praised the Canadian agency as collaborators who bring ideas to life, and expressed her admiration for their work.
Meanwhile, Meghan and Harry announced a new podcast deal with Lemonada Media, a US podcast network founded by women. The podcasts will cover topics related to sex, grief, and LGBTQ issues, with the aim of making life more manageable.
The recently launched Sussex.com serves as a central hub for the couple's philanthropic and business endeavors. However, critics have noted the absence of any references to their ties to the royal family. Prince Harry, described as a humanitarian, military veteran, mental health advocate, and environmental campaigner, does not mention his royal lineage in his biography. Similarly, Meghan's biography highlights her advocacy work, her career in the entertainment industry, and her bestselling books.
The website features a minimalist design, with a prominent photograph of the couple on the homepage. It provides links to the Archewell Foundation, Archewell Productions, and the previously launched sussexroyal.com website, which coincided with their decision to step back from royal duties.
The "About" page of Sussex.com explains that it represents "The Office of Prince Harry and Meghan, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex," and showcases their commitment to shaping the future through business and philanthropy. It further outlines their involvement with the Archewell Foundation, Archewell Productions, patronages, ventures, and supported organizations.
Critics argue that the timing of the website launch is questionable, considering recent news of King Charles III's cancer diagnosis and Kate Middleton's ongoing recovery from abdominal surgery. They believe the couple should have chosen a more sensitive time to rebrand their image.
Despite the criticism, a source close to Meghan and Harry defended their use of royal titles on the website, stating that they are, in fact, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and that their surname and family name reflect this.
Experts also highlighted the connection between Sussex.com and the previously used SussexRoyal.com domain, even though the couple was instructed to drop the "Sussex Royal" label in 2020. At that time, it was deemed inappropriate for them to continue using the term "royal" in their branding.
Meghan also made an announcement on Sussex.com about her collaboration with Lemonada Media, accompanied by a new portrait photo. In the photo, she wears Princess Diana's old watch and a Cartier Love bracelet, which is said to have been a gift from Prince Harry.
Overall, Meghan expressed her enthusiasm for the new podcast deal and hinted at potential future projects, stating that it was an exciting way to start 2024, and she was eager to share the upcoming podcasts with the audience.
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