Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are facing a new wave of criticism after claims emerged that fans were being charged $300 for selfies while reports of an Australian backlash cast a shadow over their latest public appearance.
The allegations, which have spread rapidly online, have reignited fierce debate over the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s post-royal brand — with critics accusing the couple of monetising celebrity access while struggling to maintain public support.
According to reports circulating on social media, attendees at a recent event were offered premium packages that allegedly included photo opportunities with the Sussexes. The headline figure of $300 quickly became a flashpoint, with detractors branding the idea “shameless” and “deeply out of touch.”
One critic wrote online: “They left the Royal Family to be private, then charge people to take photos.” Another added: “This is not service — it’s celebrity business.”
Supporters of the couple were quick to push back, arguing that such packages are common at charity events, conferences and commercial appearances involving high-profile names. They also noted that headline prices do not necessarily mean the money goes directly into the couple’s pockets.
One supporter posted: “Lots of public figures do paid meet-and-greets. Why are Meghan and Harry judged differently?”
The row intensified after separate claims suggested as many as 81 per cent of Australians were unimpressed by the couple’s latest tour or public standing. While the exact source and methodology of such figures remain disputed, the number has been widely shared by critics as evidence that the Sussexes’ popularity may be slipping in a country where they once received a warm reception.
Australia played a major role in the couple’s early royal success, with their 2018 tour widely viewed as a triumph. Huge crowds turned out to see the newlyweds, and Meghan was praised by many for her energy and modern appeal.
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But much has changed since then.
Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Harry and Meghan have built a new life in California, signing media deals, launching business ventures and appearing at carefully selected events. Their critics say the couple have traded royal duty for Hollywood-style monetisation. Their supporters say they are simply building an independent life on their own terms.
Royal commentator sources claim the latest selfie controversy plays into a broader image problem. One said: “Whether fair or unfair, the optics are terrible. People remember the speeches about service and privacy.”
Others insist the attacks are part of a relentless campaign against the couple.
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Neither Meghan nor Harry has publicly responded to the claims.
Still, the episode has once again shown how quickly even minor details surrounding the Sussexes can explode into a global headline war.
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For supporters, it is another unfair pile-on. For critics, it is proof the royal rebel brand has become a commercial machine.
And for Meghan and Harry, one alleged selfie fee has turned into yet another battle over relevance, popularity and what exactly life after royalty is supposed to look like.
