Meghan Markle stayed silent during Prince Harry’s speech over fears of ‘causing controversy’

Meghan Markle stayed silent during Prince Harry’s speech over fears of ‘causing controversy’

Prince Harry delivered a passionate speech about mental health while at the Lights Academy in Nigeria, but wife Meghan Markle didn’t say a word as he addressed the room

Prince Harry spoke passionately about mental health during his first interview in Nigeria, but Meghan Markle stayed silent as he talked.

The couple attended the Lights Academy in Abuja on Friday morning, where Harry spoke out against the stigma surrounding mental health struggles. Harry said: “There is no shame to be able to acknowledge that today is a bad day. Okay?

“If you woke up this morning feeling sad, if you left school feeling stressed, if you’ve lost a loved one in your family who you usually turn to or speak to, all of these things you may be led to believe are not for conversation. We are here today to tell you that that is not the case. Every single one of those things is completely normal.” Meghan nodded along as her husband spoke, but decided not to add anything to his speech.

grabs PREP: BREAKING: First pictures of Harry and Meghan in Nigeria
Prince Harry spoke passionately about mental health
Celebrity PR Guru Edward Hopkins suggested there are several reasons why Meghan will have chosen to remain silent as Harry spoke. Firstly, he said she could have been trying to support his message.

Edward explained: “Meghan might have felt that Harry’s message on mental health was strong and comprehensive, so she didn’t feel the need to add anything further. By nodding along, she could be showing her agreement and support for his words.”

He also said the Duchess of Sussex might have wanted to respect Harry as the expert on mental health. Indeed, the Duke of Sussex is known for his work within mental health, having founded the charity Heads Together and created a documentary for the BBC discussing mental health struggles with footballers including Thierry Henry and Gareth Southgate.

Britain's Prince Harry (R), Duke of Sussex, and Britain's Meghan (L), Duchess of Sussex, arrive at the Lightway Academy

The couple visited the Lightway Academy (
Image:
Getty Images)
Edward said: “Meghan may have wanted to give him the space to address the audience on this topic, recognising his expertise and passion in the area..” He also said it could have been a “strategic decision” to avoid controversy.

The PR expert told us: “By not speaking herself, she might avoid drawing attention away from the main message or inadvertently causing any controversy.” Edward finally suggested it could simply be a personal preference of Meghan’s to let Harry take the lead.

He added: “Meghan might simply be more comfortable in certain settings taking a supporting role rather than being in the spotlight. Given the nature of the event and the topic, she may have preferred to let Harry be the primary speaker.”

Related Posts

Loose Women star Denise Welch’s three word warning after being scammed for thousands

Denise Welch has opened up about how she was scammed of thousands of pounds after making a huge error – and is warning others not to do…

Kym Marsh suffers another tragic family loss as she shares heartbreaking tribute

Actress Kym Marsh has revealed her family has suffered another devastating death as she paid an emotional tribute on her social media following the loss of her…

David Beckham makes big gesture on social media towards son Brooklyn amid rift

David Beckham showed his support for his eldest son Brooklyn Beckham on social media this week following rumours of a rift between some of the family in…

Clarkson’s Farm star Harriet Cowan claims she is ‘not making any money’ despite show

Harriet Cowan became a hit with Clarkson’s Farm viewers when she stepped in to help Jeremy Clarkson while Kaleb Cooper went away as she revealed the harsh…

Danniella Westbrook confesses her biggest regret as she looks back on her troubled past

Former EastEnders actress Danniella Westbrook says she doesn’t have any career regrets, but drugs will “always” be her biggest regret, as she’s opened up about her past…

Alex Jones fights tears as her rarely-seen husband appears on The One Show

Alex Jones was brought to tears during tonight’s episode of The One Show as her rarely-seen husband Charlie made a surprise appearance as she celebrated 15 years…