Prince Harry is facing backlash and potential boycotts following the removal of his Remembrance Day wreath from public display as a punitive measure.
The wreaths, previously laid by both Prince Harry and Prince Andrew, have been taken down at The Poppy Factory, a non-profit organization known for producing poppies.
This move symbolizes the shifting status of the royals, with neither the Duke of Sussex nor the Duke of York retaining their working royal titles.
As a result, they were not permitted to wear military attire at significant royal events, including the Queen’s State Funeral.
Visitors to The Poppy Factory had been able to view Prince Harry’s wreath since 2019, marking the last memorial day he participated in before stepping down as a working royal alongside his wife, Meghan Markle, in 2020.
A source at the site in Richmond, London revealed that Prince Harry’s wreath used to be prominently displayed but has since been removed.
The source explained, “They no longer hold any ceremonial military office as working royals, there’s no reason to display them.
We’ve got rid of it, and all the duplicates we kept too.”
In contrast, memorial wreaths from other members of the royal family, such as the late Queen and Prince Philip, King Charles, Princess Anne, Prince William, and Prince Edward, remain on exhibit.
The timing of this removal coincides with the upcoming release of Prince Harry’s highly anticipated memoir, “Spare,” published by Penguin Random House.
The book is promised to offer profound insights and revelations, potentially shedding light on the challenges Prince Harry has faced since stepping back from his royal duties and publicly criticizing the monarchy.
Literary agent Peter Cox acknowledged the risks associated with the memoir’s release, highlighting the divisive nature of Prince Harry’s public image.
Cox emphasized the importance of Prince Harry’s personal involvement in promoting the book, suggesting that its success hinges on his dedication and commitment to the project.
Despite the anticipation surrounding “Spare,” concerns have been raised regarding its reception among readers, particularly those who may view Prince Harry as a controversial or self-pitying figure.
Cox pointed out that while royal-themed books typically attract supporters of the monarchy, Prince Harry’s memoir could face resistance from those who question his motives and actions.
The book’s pricing and longevity on the market are also subjects of speculation, with Cox noting that its success will depend on how it is perceived by the public and whether Prince Harry can effectively engage with potential readers.
As pre-orders for “Spare” soared to the top of the charts in the UK, US, and Canada, there is a sense of both excitement and skepticism surrounding its release.
While some predict that the book will be a bestseller upon launch, others caution against potential overexposure and backlash from audiences who may feel disillusioned by Prince Harry’s decisions.
Cox highlighted the contrast between Prince Harry and his late mother, Princess Diana, noting that while Diana was widely beloved, Prince Harry’s actions have divided public opinion.
The ultimate fate of “Spare” in the British market remains uncertain, with questions looming about its reception and lasting impact on Prince Harry’s reputation.