Harry And Meghan's 'Humanitarians Of The Year Award' Called Into Question Over Royal Family Rift

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are set to be honored at Project Healthy Minds' World Mental Health Day Gala.

While praised for their efforts, royal commentators have criticized their selection due to family tensions and perceived image-driven ventures.

The award follows Meghan Markle's debut at Paris Fashion Week, where she supported Balenciaga's new creative director while wearing an elegant white ensemble.

Harry and Meghan traveled to New York City on October 9 to receive the "Humanitarians of the Year" award at Project Healthy Minds' World Mental Health Day Gala.

PeopleMagazine reported that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are being recognized for their efforts in promoting mental wellness and advocating for safer online spaces for families and young people.

Their Archewell Foundation, founded in 2020, has led several initiatives addressing mental health and digital safety, including The Parents' Network, which supports families affected by online harm.

However, the couple's selection has sparked controversy among royal commentators, with some arguing that their personal conduct undermines the spirit of the award.

Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams told Fox News Digital that, although Harry and Meghan have made significant contributions to mental health awareness, their strained relationships with the royal family raise questions about the appropriateness of the honor.

"Despite the work they have undoubtedly done to highlight mental health issues ... surely, they are the wrong winners for this sort of award," he said.

Fitzwilliams continued, "Both Meghan and Harry are estranged from their families and have launched deeply destructive attacks on the royal family for their personal and financial gain. Surely, winners of such an award should be positive in approach."

The Humanitarian Award comes at a pivotal moment for Meghan. Since stepping back from royal duties, the former actress has been reshaping her image as a businesswoman and creative.

Earlier this year, she debuted her lifestyle brand, As Ever, followed by her critically panned Netflix series, "With Love, Meghan."

In the announcement for the award ceremony, Meghan was described as a "cultural catalyst for positive change," while Harry's record-breaking memoir, "Spare," was listed among his achievements.

Still, Fitzwilliams argued that while the royal couple's foundation's efforts in mental health are commendable, "their treatment of their respective families makes them unsuitable recipients of a humanitarian award."

Royal commentator Hilary Fordwich shared a similar view, questioning the substance of Meghan's post-royal pursuits, suggesting they lack the substance expected of genuine humanitarian work.

"Instead of focusing on ... charitable pursuits or anything truly transformative to rectify her reputation ... she is reverting to glitzy, high-profiled events in an attempt to reset public perception," Fordwich said. "… Unfortunately for her, Hollywood is unforgiving. A third act isn't likely to succeed."

In a statement shared with People, Harry and Meghan expressed how deeply their advocacy for online safety resonates with them.

"Working with families and young people to prioritize safety online has been some of the most meaningful work of our lives," the couple said.

They continued, "As parents ourselves, we have been moved to action by the power of their stories and are honored to support them. We're proud to be longtime partners of Project Healthy Minds as we work together to shine a light on what remains one of the most pressing issues of our time."

On October 10, the couple will participate in Project Healthy Minds' fourth annual World Mental Health Day Festival. Their Archewell Foundation will partner with the organization to co-produce a discussion series aimed at enhancing mental health awareness and promoting global well-being.

The award announcement comes after Meghan made her Paris Fashion Week debut on October 4, attending the Balenciaga show to support designer Pierpaolo Piccioli, who was recently appointed creative director for the brand.

A spokesperson for Meghan told People that her appearance was a show of solidarity with Piccioli as he begins a new creative chapter at Balenciaga.

For the show, the Duchess of Sussex opted for an elegant all-white ensemble featuring wide-leg trousers paired with a matching blazer from Balenciaga's latest collection.

She completed the look with sleek black pointed-toe heels and a neatly slicked-back bun. Meghan later slipped into a black Balenciaga gown that exuded elegance while highlighting her svelte figure.