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.

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.

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.”