At the 2024 ESPY Awards, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle found themselves in an unexpected spotlight, receiving boos from a section of the audience.
This incident unfolded during ESPN’s 32nd annual ceremony, which celebrates outstanding athletic achievements, held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on July 11th.
Hosted by none other than Serena Williams, a close friend of the couple, the evening took a surprising turn during her opening remarks.
Serena kicked off the event with a playful nod to the royal couple, stating, “It’s not every day I get to be in a room with actual royalty, and tonight is no exception.”
She then called for applause for Harry and Meghan, but her light-hearted comment soon veered into uncomfortable territory.
Williams quipped, “But please, Harry and Meghan, try not to breathe too much tonight, because this is my night and I don’t want to be overshadowed by the accusations that you guys are taking up too much oxygen, okay?”
What was meant as a joke didn’t land well with everyone present.
Footage from the event captured the couple’s reactions, revealing Meghan’s evident displeasure, likely stemming from Serena’s omission of any royal titles during the introduction.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry appeared visibly uncomfortable, his smile absent.
As the camera panned across the audience, it became clear that many were less than enthusiastic, responding with sparse applause and noticeable boos when Serena referred to them as “actual royalty.”
Interestingly, reports suggest that the live broadcast may have masked these boos with an applause track—a tactic often employed in live television to maintain a positive atmosphere.
However, the negative reception from the audience wasn’t an isolated incident; it reflects a broader skepticism surrounding Harry and Meghan’s public appearances since stepping back from royal duties in early 2020.
Critics have long accused the couple of craving the limelight rather than embracing a life dedicated to service.
Their acceptance of the Pat Tillman Award, which honors service and leadership, has sparked considerable debate.
Detractors argue that their lifestyle does not align with the values exemplified by Pat Tillman, a former NFL player who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the military.
Royal commentators have voiced their concerns, with Hilary Fordwich expressing doubt over Harry’s decision to accept the award amidst significant public backlash.
In an interview with Fox News, she remarked that his refusal to decline the Pat Tillman Award, despite a petition urging ESPN to reconsider, highlights how his popularity has taken a hit.
Adding to the chorus of criticism, Admiral Lord Alan West, a former head of the Royal Navy, advised Harry to think carefully about accepting the award.
He noted that it doesn’t resonate well with many in the military community, further intensifying the scrutiny surrounding the Sussexes.
The award, according to West, seems misaligned with the values cherished by those who serve.
Despite the backlash, the friendship between Serena Williams and the Sussexes remains strong, dating back to their first meeting at the 2010 Super Bowl.
Meghan once reflected on their relationship in her blog, The Tig, in 2014, highlighting their shared interests and ambitions.
Yet, even this long-standing bond couldn’t shield them from the intense scrutiny they faced at the ESPYs.
As the dust settles on this incident, it raises questions about the couple’s future public engagements and how they will navigate the challenges of their post-royal lives.