Despite their noble status, why have Prince Harry and Meghan Markle chosen to embroil themselves and their family in what feels like a tabloid saga? The answer lies in the media storm they’ve masterfully cultivated around their every move.

As members of the British royal family, they would have lived a life of privilege but under relentless scrutiny. Every outfit, like Meghan’s choice of a designer dress, would invite criticism over perceived extravagance, much like the scrutiny Princess Kate faces daily. The Royal Family, despite their wealth and financial contributions to the public purse, remains under the microscope of public opinion.

In contrast, their life in the United States has brought them unprecedented financial success. The couple has secured a $100 million Netflix deal, a $30 million Spotify contract, and a $20 million advance for Harry’s memoir. Their Netflix series revealed the strategy behind Harry’s speeches at the United Nations, visits to American cities, and meetings with politicians – all carefully orchestrated to generate content and media buzz.

In just three years, the Sussex have transformed into a multimillion-dollar brand. The more shocking and controversial their actions, the more their brand thrives. This tactic, though well-worn, remains a powerful media strategy.

Harry and Meghan have meticulously leveraged their royal titles to captivate global audiences with their stories, turning curiosity into profit. This brand-building process has been calculated and deliberate, executed with precision over time.

However, Harry and Meghan have been careful not to completely sever ties with the royal family. They’ve made serious accusations, such as alleging racism within the family, but have deliberately kept certain details, like the identity of the alleged offender, vague. They recognize that bringing down the entire royal institution would be nearly impossible – and unwise, as it could jeopardize their source of income. Instead, they focus on crafting dramatic narratives.

The British royal family, on the other hand, has remained steadfast in its refusal to engage publicly, adhering to the principle that entering a media battle could tarnish the institution’s dignity. The rare responses that do emerge are often leaked from “close sources.” This restraint has given Harry and Meghan a distinct advantage, as they continue to direct the narrative unopposed.

Yet, the royal family is itself a billion-dollar brand with far greater influence than the Sussexes. Their contrasting approaches to media only fuel the ongoing saga.

However, the Sussex’s strategy is not without its flaws. Public interest in their personal stories may eventually wane, and when it does, the couple’s appeal could diminish. When that time comes, the world will be watching to see what new strategies the Sussexes will employ to keep their brand – and revenue stream – alive.