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Prince Harry gets rare boost in UK popularity ahead of key court ruling, but public opinion remains divided
A new YouGov survey suggests Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have seen modest gains in public support, even as the Duke of Sussex continues to face legal challenges and efforts to rebuild ties with the Royal Family.
Prince Harry has received a rare piece of positive news at a time when he continues to face legal and personal challenges in the United Kingdom.
According to the latest YouGov polling data, the Duke of Sussex has recorded a modest improvement in his popularity among the British public over the past year. The increase comes as Harry awaits further developments in ongoing legal matters and continues efforts to repair his relationship with the Royal Family.
Harry’s popularity shows improvement
The survey indicates that 33% of respondents now hold a favourable opinion of Prince Harry, compared with 27% a year earlier.
Meanwhile, the percentage of people with an unfavourable view of the Duke has reportedly fallen from 62% to 58%.
Although public opinion remains more negative than positive overall, the figures suggest a gradual improvement after several years of declining approval.
Meghan Markle also registered a small increase in public support, with her favourable rating rising to 22%, according to the same survey.
Royal Family support remains stable
The poll also found that overall support for the British monarchy has remained largely unchanged during the reign of King Charles III, with nearly two-thirds of respondents continuing to back the institution.
Among members of the Royal Family, Prince Andrew remains the least popular, recording the lowest favourability rating in the survey.
Reconciliation efforts may be influencing opinion
Royal commentator Tracy Schaverien believes Prince Harry’s recent efforts to reconnect with his family may have contributed to the improvement in public sentiment.
According to Schaverien, Harry’s meetings with King Charles and public appearances with Meghan, Prince Archie, and Princess Lilibet have presented a more personal side of the Duke, potentially helping soften public perceptions.
She also suggested that family moments shared by Meghan on social media may have reinforced Harry’s image as a devoted father.
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Relationship with King Charles
Prince Harry has repeatedly expressed his desire to rebuild his relationship with his father.
Following King Charles III’s cancer diagnosis in 2024, Harry travelled to the UK for a private meeting with the monarch. The two also met again during subsequent visits, including a recent reunion linked to preparations for the Invictus Games in Birmingham.
The latest meeting reportedly marked the first time King Charles had seen Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet in person since the Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022.
Legal challenges continue
Despite the positive shift in public opinion, Harry continues to face legal difficulties in the UK, including recent proceedings involving Associated Newspapers Limited, publisher of the Daily Mail.
The Duke has previously spoken openly about the emotional impact of his legal disputes, particularly those concerning his security arrangements in Britain.
In a previous interview, Harry reiterated his hope of reconciling with his family, saying that continuing the conflict serves no purpose.
Next UK visit expected soon
Prince Harry is expected to return to the United Kingdom in September to attend the WellChild Awards, an event he has supported for many years.
Media reports have suggested discussions took place regarding accommodation during the visit, although no official details have been confirmed.
While Harry’s public approval ratings remain below those of several senior royals, the latest polling indicates that attitudes towards the Duke may be gradually shifting as he continues balancing public duties, legal battles and efforts to reconnect with his family.
