Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, continue to generate significant public interest both in the United Kingdom and internationally. While their departure from official royal duties in 2020 marked a major shift in the British monarchy, a recent public opinion poll highlights a positive reception toward the couple—particularly among younger generations.
According to results published by multiple UK media outlets, including The Mirror, a survey of 1,000 teens and young adults conducted by the mental health charity Stem4 revealed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are considered among the most respected royal figures. The findings suggest that their openness about personal challenges and mental health advocacy has made a lasting impression on younger audiences.
Transitioning from Royal Life to Public Advocacy
In March 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan stepped back from their roles as senior working royals, opting to pursue an independent life outside of the UK. The couple settled in Montecito, California, and began developing philanthropic and media projects through their nonprofit organization, Archewell Foundation.
Their new path has centered around mental health, racial and social justice, environmental causes, and gender equity. In line with this mission, the couple has launched a number of media ventures, including content partnerships with Netflix, Spotify, and Penguin Random House.
One of their most high-profile moments came in March 2021, when they participated in an interview with Oprah Winfrey. In the special, which aired on CBS, the couple spoke candidly about personal struggles within the royal institution and challenges related to mental well-being and media intrusion. The interview received global attention and opened up conversations about the role of mental health support within the royal family and public life.
Mental Health Advocacy and Public Influence
Prince Harry has been especially active in addressing mental health awareness, continuing a legacy once championed by his late mother, Princess Diana. In May 2021, he co-produced the Apple TV+ docuseries The Me You Can’t See, alongside Oprah Winfrey. The program featured stories from individuals around the world and public figures—including Harry himself—discussing their mental health experiences and the importance of emotional well-being.
This initiative, along with public conversations on platforms such as Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast, has allowed Prince Harry to speak more openly about personal development and healing. His involvement in these projects reflects a broader shift toward a transparent and empathetic approach to leadership, something that resonates strongly with younger generations.
Meghan Markle has also been vocal about topics such as gender equity, maternal health, and representation. Through her work as a speaker, writer, and advocate, she continues to highlight the need for systemic change in media and societal structures.
A Growing Connection with Younger Generations
The survey conducted by Stem4, a UK-based mental health charity founded by Dr. Nihara Krause, asked participants aged 13 to 25 to identify public figures they most admired based on values such as bravery, resilience, and compassion.
- Queen Elizabeth II held the highest respect rating across age groups, reflecting her decades-long role as a symbol of continuity and service.
- Prince Harry ranked second, earning 22% of the vote, while Meghan Markle followed closely with 21%.
- By comparison, Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, received 10% and 11%, respectively.
Dr. Krause noted that respect among younger individuals today is driven less by status or appearance and more by attributes such as authenticity, emotional vulnerability, and meaningful advocacy. These values appear to align with the public image that Harry and Meghan have cultivated in their post-royal life.
Also cited among admired public figures in the same survey were Sir David Attenborough, renowned for environmental education, and Marcus Rashford, the footballer recognized for his work on child food poverty in the UK.
Keeping Princess Diana’s Legacy Alive
A consistent theme in Prince Harry’s public work is the continued tribute to his mother, Diana, Princess of Wales. Diana’s approach to humanitarian work—marked by compassion, empathy, and direct connection with those in need—deeply influenced both of her sons.
In June 2021, Harry and Prince William reunited to unveil a statue of Princess Diana at Kensington Palace’s Sunken Garden on what would have been her 60th birthday. The statue was commissioned in 2017 and honors Diana’s commitment to positive change, particularly in areas of homelessness, HIV/AIDS awareness, and youth support.
Additionally, the naming of Harry and Meghan’s daughter—Lilibet “Lili” Diana Mountbatten-Windsor—pays homage to both Queen Elizabeth II (whose family nickname was Lilibet) and Princess Diana. The gesture reflects the couple’s desire to maintain familial connections while honoring the legacy of Harry’s mother in a meaningful and respectful way.
A New Kind of Royal Representation
Despite facing criticism and tabloid attention in some parts of the media, Harry and Meghan have succeeded in building a reputation among many younger people as modern, relatable, and socially conscious figures. In contrast to traditional royal roles, which often involve limited public commentary on personal matters, the Sussexes have chosen to use their platforms to raise awareness about difficult but important issues, including mental health, racial equality, and media responsibility.
Their decision to speak openly about personal experiences—whether in media interviews or through creative projects—has helped them connect with a global audience that values transparency and purpose-driven leadership.
While perspectives on the couple vary across generations and regions, the rising support from younger demographics signals an evolving view of public figures—especially those with royal ties—who are willing to challenge established norms and promote social impact.
Conclusion: A Shift Toward Compassionate Leadership
The recent poll placing Prince Harry and Meghan Markle among the most respected royal figures among youth underscores their ability to connect with a new generation that values honesty, emotional resilience, and activism. Their transition from traditional royal duties to independent public service has positioned them as influential voices in the areas of mental health, humanitarian causes, and global equity.
While their journey has not been without controversy, the couple’s continued commitment to authentic storytelling and social change appears to be making a lasting impression—especially among those shaping the future.
As the Royal Family continues to evolve, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex represent a different path: one rooted in compassionate leadership, modern communication, and the pursuit of purpose-driven impact.
