On Sunday, August 4th, all eyes were on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as they appeared on CBS Sunday Morning for their first joint interview in three years. The date also marked Meghan Markle’s 43rd birthday, adding an extra layer of interest to the much-anticipated broadcast.

This interview marked the first time the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have spoken together on camera since their groundbreaking 2021 conversation with Oprah Winfrey. During their latest chat, the royal couple opened up to CBS anchor Jane Pauley about their latest endeavors, particularly focusing on their Archewell Foundation’s new initiative, The Parent Network. This program aims to support parents of children who have been adversely affected by the darker sides of social media.

Meghan Markle Opens Up About Mental Health

In a candid moment, Meghan Markle, the founder of American Riviera Orchard, revisited her past struggles with mental health, including suicidal thoughts she previously disclosed during the 2021 Oprah interview. “I believe part of our healing journey, certainly part of mine, has been being really open about it,” Meghan expressed. She emphasized the importance of addressing mental health challenges openly, saying, “I would never want someone else to feel that way, and I would never want someone else to be making those plans, and I would never want someone else to not be believed.” Meghan hopes that sharing her experiences will inspire others to check in with themselves and others.

“So if me voicing what I have… overcome will save someone, or encourage someone in their life to genuinely check in on them… then that’s okay, I’ll take a hit for that,” she stated.

Prince Harry on Online Safety for Children

Prince Harry also discussed the challenges of protecting children in the digital age. He drew comparisons to how parenting has evolved, noting, “We always talk about, in the olden days, if your kids were under your roof, you knew what they were up to. At least they’re safe.”

Harry stressed the danger that lies within the seemingly safe confines of home, adding, “But now, they can be in the next room on a tablet or a phone and could be going down these rabbit holes. And before you know it, within 24 hours, they could be taking their life.”

Mixed Reactions from the Public

The couple’s insights into the impact of social media on mental health and their commitment to creating safer online environments for children were praised by many. However, not all feedback was positive. Critics took to social media to question the couple’s decision to participate in another high-profile interview, especially given their previous comments about wanting privacy.

One critic labeled the Sussexes as “pathetic,” while another commented on the perceived irony of “complaining about the media by constantly going to the media.” Some skeptics pointed out the contradiction between their advocacy for privacy and their continued media presence. “I thought these two wanted privacy?” questioned a viewer in the comments section of CBS’ video, while another added, “Don’t be fooled by grifters.”

Others accused the couple of “never-ending victimhood” and questioned their authenticity. “The HYPOCRISY. Dear LORD,” wrote another YouTube viewer, illustrating the divide in public opinion.

The Parent Network Initiative

The CBS interview served as a platform for Harry and Meghan to launch their new philanthropic initiative, The Parent Network. This free, peer-to-peer support service aims to assist parents in the U.S., U.K., and Canada whose children have suffered due to social media. The network focuses on providing “crucial support” to families dealing with “near-fatal harm” or “ongoing mental health difficulties” from online interactions.

The Archewell Foundation has also introduced the No Child Lost To Social Media campaign, highlighting parents who have been impacted by social media’s negative influence. James Holt, the foundation’s chief executive, emphasized the need for community support, saying, “We believe in the transformative power of community, and that is why we have created this network – to connect those who face these challenges and offer mutual support.”

As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex continue to navigate the complexities of their public and private lives, their latest interview reinforces their commitment to social causes, particularly those affecting young people. The mixed reception to their CBS appearance highlights the ongoing public fascination—and polarization—surrounding the couple’s actions and motives. Regardless of the varied opinions, Harry and Meghan’s latest efforts underscore their dedication to making a difference, one initiative at a time.