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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry found themselves at the center of yet another publicity storm following their appearance at the 2022 ESPY Awards. After receiving an award at the ceremony, the couple made an unexpected and abrupt exit that was widely panned as rude and disrespectful.
At events like awards shows, it is considered standard etiquette to remain for the full duration out of respect for other attendees and recipients. Rushing out immediately after accepting an honor is seen as particularly poor form, especially if it interrupts someone else's time on stage.
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However, critics argue Harry and Meghan, often derisively referred to as "Harkle," seem to operate under their own protocols. At the ESPYs, coverage focused more on Harry's award than Meghan's supporting role. Witnesses say her dramatic exit while someone else spoke caused a visible stir.
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Observers speculated one presenter purposefully made a dig at Meghan by joking she shouldn't leave if handed the mic. This was seen as an attempt to embarrass her, as it was clear from boos that some in the crowd disapproved of their departure.
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It recalled a similar moment in 1999 when Elizabeth Kazan was simultaneously applauded and protested for receiving a lifetime achievement Oscar amid controversy. Likewise, the reaction to Harry and Meghan signaled split opinions their exit breached standard etiquette expected of others honored at the ESPYs, especially athletes celebrating accomplishments.
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Some theorized the "not the Princess of Wales" quip was a reference to Meghan emulating Harry's late mother Diana. Others question if being snubbed from the afterparty or a joke at their expense prompted offense leading to the early exit.
Regardless of reason, their conduct was criticized as epitomizing bad manners and poor sportsmanship. Having accepted recognition, critics argue the couple should have shown respect to all involved by remaining until the end instead of abruptly leaving mid-ceremony.
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Coming as ongoing debates question Meghan and Harry's every move, this latest incident will likely only add fuel to perceptions their public appearances breed unnecessary controversy and attention-seeking behavior at the expense of others. As non-working royals now operating outside palace protocols, missteps risk further eroding their reputations and legacy regardless of intent.
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Whether due to pique or simple rudeness, Meghan and Harry's ESPYs exit enforced the notion they court the spotlight while unintentionally disrespecting events and people that aim to celebrate others - ensuring this awards show will not soon be forgotten, if for all the wrong reasons.
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