Prince Harry was issued an urgent warning ahead of last night’s controversial appearance at a glitzy awards ceremony in the US where he will be recognised for his service – but he failed to heed the advice.
The Duke of Sussex received the Pat Tillman Award for Service at this year’s ESPY (Excellence in Sports Performance Yearly) Awards in Los Angeles.
Serena Williams hosted this year’s event where Harry was honored for founding the Invictus Games a decade ago to support injured servicemen and women, both active duty and veterans.
Harry’s nomination has faced significant backlash, with a petition nearing 76,000 signatures and Mary Tillman, mother of Pat Tillman, expressing shock, noting more suitable recipients exist.
Many of Harry’s critics urged the royal to not attend or accept the award at all, but he decided to turn up with his wife Meghan Markle.
A PR expert came up with a plan detailing his best approach if he were to attend, however it appears Harry did not take such a PR-savvy approach.
Renae Smith, founder and director of the Atticism, told Express.co.uk that it would be “crucial” for the duke to address the controversy during his speech or through a statement if he attended the ceremony.
She explained: “If Prince Harry attends the awards ceremony despite the backlash, we should anticipate a mixed outcome.
“On one hand, his presence would demonstrate his commitment to the cause and to the Invictus Games, reinforcing his dedication to veterans and their families. This could positively resonate with supporters who value his work and see him as a figure of genuine compassion and service.
“However, attending amidst backlash might also amplify negative sentiments and criticism. Critics may view his attendance as defiant or dismissive of public opinion, which could exacerbate existing tensions.”
Ms Smith stressed: “It is my professional opinion that it is crucial for Harry to address the controversy in his speech or through a statement, acknowledging the concerns while reaffirming his commitment to the cause.”
The PR specialist went on to pinpoint four of Harry’s best moves going forward which would provide the best possible outcome.
– Attend the Ceremony: “Given the significance of the award and the cause, attending the ceremony would underscore his dedication and commitment to the Invictus Games and veterans. His presence is important to maintain the integrity of the work he has done.l and he should view it as such.”
– Prepare a Thoughtful Speech: ” Harry should address the backlash head-on in his speech – no nerves, no excuses, no apologies – simply acknowledge the controversy and the diverse opinions surrounding the award, but emphasise the importance of the Invictus Games to him; and point out his attendance is due solely to his ongoing commitment to the cause. This shows transparency and a willingness to engage with criticism constructively.
Then, depending on how that turns out, the PR team might have post-event work to do if the story doesn’t ‘die’.”
– Engage with Media Responsibly: “If the story stays active post-ceremony, Harry should engage with the media to further explain his position and the significance of the award. Highlight the positive impacts of the Invictus Games (keep out any personal achievements or ego) and talk about how the games align with Pat Tillman’s legacy of service.”
– [If the story still won’t ‘die’] Leverage Support: “Garner public support from veterans, beneficiaries of the Invictus Games, and other respected figures to speak on his behalf, highlighting the positive outcomes of his work and the importance of the award on their behalf (take the focus off Harry as a person, and back onto the cause).”
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