Prince Harry’s cringeworthy Late Show appearance is an ‘embarrassment,’ leading PR expert claims
Here’s an overview of what’s being said about Prince Harry’s recent appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert — and why a PR expert reportedly branded it an “embarrassment.”
🎬 What went down
- In a surprise cameo aired on December 3, 2025, Prince Harry joined Stephen Colbert in a loosely scripted, comedic sketch: Harry pretended to audition for a Hallmark‑style Christmas movie — joking about being a “Gingerbread Prince.”
- As part of the bit, he took aim at Donald Trump, quipping that Americans had “elected a king,” referencing Trump — a remark that provoked boos from the studio audience and prompted some viewers to label the moment awkward and “tone‑deaf.”
📉 Why some view it as a PR disaster
- Critics argue that Harry’s joke came off as more provocative than playful, especially given the charged political undertones — a risk when mixing royalty, satire, and real‑world politics. Some described the sketch as “uncomfortable” rather than funny.
- The timing also drew criticism: his appearance coincided with significant personal and family matters (reported health issues for a relative), which many felt made the skit seem poorly timed or insensitive.
- As one media outlet put it: the show might have intended a lighthearted holiday cameo, but for many it back‑fired — turning into a public relations misstep rather than a win.
Some analysts claim this episode could further erode his public credibility, reinforcing perceptions that he and his public image are increasingly misaligned with mainstream expectations — especially among audiences skeptical of mixing royal status with political commentary.
📣 What’s at stake
- For Prince Harry’s broader efforts to rebrand himself outside the royal family realm — whether as an advocate, public figure, or media personality — this gamble on comedy + critique may have undermined that. What might have been a clever cameo instead risks being remembered as a cringe‑worthy moment.
- It also raises questions about whether public‑figures with royal backgrounds can successfully navigate satirical spaces without alienating parts of their audience — especially amid polarized politics.
- Finally, the episode highlights how the intersection of celebrity, royalty, entertainment, and politics has become a high‑stakes arena: even seemingly innocuous jokes can carry serious reputational consequences.
