"Hello, this is Rishi Sunak," answered Sunak when he picked up the call. "Hi, Rishi, it's Harry—Harry Windsor," the voice on the other end identified itself.
"Harry who?" Sunak inquired, feigning ignorance.
"Sorry, mate, you've got the wrong number," Sunak responded before hanging up and resuming his bowling game. The advertisement, intended as a playful jest and a Coca-Cola promotion, faced criticism from many viewers who deemed it insensitive, disrespectful, and cruel to Prince Harry. This comes in light of Harry's estrangement from his family after he and Meghan chose to step back as senior royals and relocated to the United States.
Some have accused Sunak of mocking Harry's isolation and loneliness, while others have suggested that he was taking a dig at Meghan, known to be a fan of Von's muffins and Mexican Coke, which Sunak also stocked up on during his recent trip to California. One viewer expressed their disapproval on Twitter, saying, "This is disgusting. How can Rishi Sunak make fun of Prince Harry like that? He has been through so much and deserves respect and compassion, not ridicule and mockery. Shame on you, Rishi."
Another comment read, "This is not funny; this is cruel. Rishi Sunak is clearly trying to antagonize Meghan Markle by flaunting her favorite treats and snubbing her husband. He is a bully and a hypocrite. He should apologize to Harry and Meghan immediately."
A third viewer commented, "This is the most tone-deaf and insensitive advert I have ever seen. Rishi Sunak is a disgrace to his office and to this country. He has no idea what Harry and Meghan have been through and how much they have sacrificed for their happiness and freedom. He should be ashamed of himself."
However, some viewers found the advert amusing and defended Sunak, asserting that he was merely having some fun and that Harry and Meghan should not take themselves too seriously. They also praised Sunak for his sense of humor and bowling skills. One supporter tweeted, "This is hilarious! Rishi Sunak is a legend. He has a great sense of humor and is not afraid to poke fun at himself and others. He's also a good bowler. Well done, Rishi."
Another comment in support read, "This is brilliant. Rishi Sunak is a genius. He has shown that he's not intimidated by Harry and Meghan and that he can make fun of them without being nasty or rude. He is also a loyal supporter of the Queen and the monarchy. Good on you, Rishi."
A third supporter remarked, "This is awesome. Rishi Sunak is a star. He has made me laugh so hard and has also made me proud to be British. He is also a fan of Von's muffins and Mexican Coke, which are the best. Go, Rishi!"
The advertisement has sparked a debate on social media and in the press about the relationship between Sunak and Harry and whether the PM was trying to convey a message to the prince or to the public. Speculation continues as to the intent behind Sunak's actions in the advertisement.
