Obamas, not Kardashians, likely to be model as Meghan and Harry seek fresh brand

As newly liberated royals, Britain’s Prince Harry and his wife Meghan have the world at their feet with the potential to make money in areas ranging from fashion and speaking engagements to forming their own production company.

But the couple, formally known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, should move wisely to make themselves financially independent in a world where social media influencers like Kim Kardashian reign and where their visibility will be magnified rather than reduced, branding experts and Hollywood observers say.

“Brand Sussex is a global brand and could end up making an absolute fortune, from public speaking to Meghan reinventing her lifestyle blog, to merchandising or brand endorsements,” said Nick Bullen, editor-in-chief of True Royalty TV.

Harry and Meghan shocked Queen Elizabeth when they announced on Wednesday they wanted to lead a more independent life, and finance it themselves.

Meghan’s background as an actress on the U.S. television show “Suits” immediately prompted speculation she could return to acting.

But the range of options open to them is far wider. It could include establishing an independent production company to make television shows, documentaries, podcasts or movies along the lines of the Higher Ground company formed by ex-President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle.

Harry already has teamed up with Oprah Winfrey to produce a forthcoming documentary focusing on mental health for Apple’s new streaming service. Apple declined to respond to queries about further collaborations with the prince.

“The Obamas are a great model for how to make money and keep it classy. They could find projects that are moving and sometimes Meghan could be in them. If it’s a documentary, maybe Harry could narrate it,” said veteran Hollywood public relations strategist Howard Bragman.

Bragman said the pair should be judicious about their choices because “the level of scrutiny they are going to get is going to be ridiculous, and not always fair.”

The booming public speaking circuit in North America could prove to be a lucrative source of income.

“Big name speakers get well into six figures to make an appearance or give a speech at an event. If they choose to pursue that avenue, they would be considered in the top echelon of speakers,” said Jeff Jacobson, co-founder of Canada-based Talent Bureau.