Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have launched a robust rebuttal against allegations of financial impropriety, dismissing the “ludicrous” claim that millions were missing from Archewell Foundation’s latest tax return.
Archewell last came under scrutiny in May after being branded “delinquent” by California’s AG’s office for not. However, this was quickly reversed after it was confirmed that they met the state’s taxing requirements.
The recent allegations against the organization come as Prince Harry embarks on a series of trips without Meghan Markle.
Prince Harry And Meghan Markle Slam New Allegations Against Archewell Foundation
According to The Express, a source close to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has come out to defend them against the allegations that they hid charity funds in a “missing millions” scandal.
Harry and Meghan came under intense scrutiny after the Daily Mail claimed that they were given two grants of more than £4.5 million ($6 million) over the last two years, but the funds were missing from the charity’s latest 990 tax return.
However, it has been revealed that The Archewell Foundation’s 990 captures all donations received from January 2022 to December 2022.
The organization reportedly believes their record, which declared $2,000,911 in the latest return, is correct, and any donation received in 2023 would appear on the next tax return.
“It’s so unfair to do this to a charity when they have done everything correctly,” a source said. “The claims are ludicrous because they [the Sussexes] have always been upfront and transparent about their finances.”
They added, “Something like this can be very damaging especially as it’s extremely misleading.”
The Couple’s Archewell Foundation Was Previously Under Scrutiny
The “missing millions” accusations put Harry and Meghan’s beleaguered foundation back in the spotlight after it was previously labeled “delinquent” for allegedly failing to submit its annual report and renewal fees properly.
The foundation was briefly banned from spending and raising money but eventually received the green light to proceed.
A source close to the couple noted that the “delinquency notice” was issued because Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office did not process a $200 renewal cheque.
The source also emphasized that the filing was made on time, but the contention arose from a check that accompanied the document going missing in the post.
Governor Gavin Newsom Defended Archewell Foundation After The ‘Delinquency’ Scandal
During a press conference at a behavioral health treatment center in San Mateo County, Governor Newsom voiced his support for Meghan and Harry’s Archewell Foundation.
He clarified the situation after the California AG’s office labeled the foundation “delinquent.”
Newsom praised the foundation’s positive impact, particularly in mental health support for women and girls, stating: “I’m here at a behavioral health site, a mental health site. Archewell Foundation, run by Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, do extraordinary work, particularly [for] women and girls, but notably, around mental health.”
He added, “And I just want folks to know, not only are they in compliance, it was a technical paperwork issue that was wildly overhyped.”
Prince Harry Has Been On A Solo Trip
Meanwhile, Harry has recently traveled extensively without his wife. He attended the UN general meeting, where he met with Queen Mathilde of Belgium and other guests.
He also received a standing ovation on Tuesday at the Clinton Global Initiative summit, where he spoke passionately about the dangers of social media for children.
The 40-year-old former working royal is currently in the U.K. for his appearance and support ahead of the WellChild awards tomorrow.
According to People Magazine, Harry said he is “honored” to celebrate “the remarkable courage and achievements of children living with complex medical needs” again this year.
“These incredible young people, along with the dedicated caregivers, nurses, and professionals who tirelessly support them, inspire us all. It is a true privilege to recognize such extraordinary individuals,” he added.
Prince Harry’s ‘Polo’ Series On Netflix Comes Under Scrutiny
According to the Daily Mail, Netflix bosses are not happy about Harry’s new “Polo” series, as it focuses on his less-known friend, professional polo player Nacho Figueras, instead of the Duke of Sussex.
A source told the news outlet that the company expected “more bang for its buck” after signing a $100 million deal with the royal couple following their move to the U.S.
“What Netflix has received in return doesn’t look great. People want personal stuff,” the source shared, adding that the series has even been tagged “the Nacho Show” behind the scenes.
“Apart from their documentary series, which had the drama of them quitting the Royal Family, everything else they’ve produced has been underwhelming,” the insider continued. “Any reasonable person tuning into a show about polo made by Prince Harry would expect Harry to take a starring role.”
“That he’s not is hugely disappointing for Netflix. Let’s face it, polo isn’t exactly a mainstream sport so the attraction would have been watching Harry. Without him, it’s marginal at best,” they added.
