Instagram post adds fuel after political moment on Colbert
Meghan Markle has stirred fresh concern around Harry’s royal titles after she shared a clip of him from The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on Instagram. The appearance drew attention when Harry joked that former President Donald Trump is America’s “king,” a line that set off a new round of speculation inside royal circles.
Royal commentator Rob Shuter said insiders believe the entire segment was carefully planned. According to him, one source described it as “produced, plotted, polished and pushed,” and added that the push didn’t come from Harry. Another insider who said they viewed rehearsal footage claimed Harry originally arrived ready to play his usual lighthearted role, with no political edge in mind. They suggested Meghan encouraged the shift, believing a sharper tone makes him more compelling.
A late-night production source also told Shuter that the moment was heavily mapped out. They said every gesture and reaction was rehearsed, calling it closer to a theatre workshop than a spontaneous talk show exchange.
Harry’s political comments and Meghan’s decision to promote the clip have reportedly unsettled the royal family. Experts say King Charles and William are likely alarmed by the remark about the US president. Royal watcher Tom Sykes wrote on his Substack that the episode may give the family, especially William, more reason to consider whether Harry should keep his titles.
