Meghan Markle is once again at the center of public conversation following a headline-making appearance in Los Angeles. The Duchess of Sussex attended the event without Prince Harry, fueling speculation about a shift in how the couple is navigating their public roles. While the pair remain professionally connected, some experts believe Markle’s solo moments highlight a renewed focus on independence. The move comes as attention surrounding the royal family intensifies.
Meghan Markle ‘protecting herself and brand’ going solo without Prince Harry, says PR expert
Meghan Markle turned heads last week when she attended the Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala in Los Angeles alone, arriving in a strapless gown paired with vintage jewelry. Prince Harry’s absence did not go unnoticed, particularly as the couple has made fewer joint appearances in recent months. According to PR expert and talent agent Dermot McNamara, the decision may reflect a calculated approach rather than coincidence.
McNamara told Mirror UK that Markle’s solo presence allowed her to reconnect with the public image she held before royal life. “Meghan was once seen as a gorgeous, glamorous Hollywood star, and she reminded people of that at the Gala,” he suggested, adding that she built a career independently long before meeting Harry. In his view, stepping out alone highlights her individual identity while reinforcing her professional credibility.
The expert further alleged that distancing public appearances from royal headlines may also be strategic amid former Prince Andrew’s ongoing controversies. ”She’s stronger alone at the moment,” he said. Some commentators believe that avoiding joint appearances tied closely to royal associations could help the Sussexes limit unwanted connections to the broader narrative.
McNamara suggested Meghan may also be balancing personal and professional priorities. He claimed there could be “an element of her protecting Harry emotionally” and “protecting herself and her brand“ as she focuses on expanding ventures such as her lifestyle label, As Ever, and the couple’s Archewell Productions company. Since no longer receiving funding as working royals, he noted, maintaining visibility and commercial momentum is increasingly important.
Royal commentator Duncan Larcombe similarly suggested that ongoing royal controversies could indirectly affect the Sussexes because their public identity remains connected to the monarchy. According to him, Markle stepping out independently may help create distance at a moment when royal headlines remain sensitive.
Originally reported by Zahrah Patel on Reality Tea.
