Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's popularity has dropped compared to Prince William and Kate Middleton.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex made several moves that many viewed as attacks against the royal family. In December 2022, they dropped their Netflix docuseries "Harry & Meghan," and, a month later, Prince Harry released his memoir "Spare," where they dished intimate details, including their conflict with the royals. The previous year ended with "Endgame," which many felt was another scathing attack on the monarchy, and the Sussexes were rumored to be involved in it.

However, it backfired with Rafe Heydel-Mankoo, historian, broadcaster and award-winning commentator in national and international media, saying 2023 was their "annus horribilis." Phil Dampier, biographer and former royal correspondent for The Sun, weighed in on what happened to the Sussexes. In his opinion, the royal couple based in California probably already realized they couldn't compete with the monarchy.

 "I think the penny has finally dropped with them [the Sussexes] that they can never compete with an ancient institution admired around the world, particularly the goodwill still lingering from the late Queen's reign," Dampier said, Express reported.

"William and Kate have never been more popular, and the Sussexes can't hold a candle to them. Even in America, people are fed up with their constant moaning and want them to do something positive. Just turning up at the occasional charity event or being seen at concerts and baseball games isn't enough," he added. 

In August, Prince William was also named the most popular political figure in the United States in a Gallup poll. The Prince of Wales received a 59% favorable rating from the Americans and was ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at 57%.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were the top 2 most disliked personalities last year. Markle was on the top spot of Ranker's survey for the Most Disliked Celebrities of 2023. Her husband was behind her in the second spot.

Many were satisfied with the list. In the initial results, Amber Heard dominated the poll, but it didn't take long before Markle dethroned her and Prince Harry joined her in the top spot.

Despite what the couple went through in 2023, Debbie Frank, renowned media and celebrity astrologer and author of "What's Your Soul Sign?," was convinced that 2024 would be a better year for the former "Suits" star.

According to her, by late March or April, the world will "see Meghan making careful preparations and calculations involving a contract with a pair of eclipses, plunging her into the limelight in a way she feels will take the world by storm." 

Tags: Meghan Markle Prince Harry royal family