The selfie, posted by Schamberg Lip, has drawn widespread outrage and ridicule from royal experts and commentators who question Harry's judgment and credibility. They point out the irony of Harry associating with a character who exploits his royal status for personal gain, especially after he and Meghan Markle distanced themselves from the royal family and relocated to the US for their independent media projects and causes.
Schamberg Lip, claiming to be a distant cousin of the British royal family, has been denounced by the head of his family, Prince Alexander of Schamberg Lip, who accuses him of using the family name for personal gain. According to German law, Schamberg Lip, adopted by Prince Walr of Schamberg Lip in his 20s, has no legal right to use the princely title. At 46 years old, Schamberg Lip has earned the title of the "king of trash TV" in Europe for his appearances on reality shows like Celebrity Big Brother, Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, and Millionaire Matchmaker. He has also been involved in various scandals, including posing semi-naked and selling a wealth elixir for €99 a bottle on a shopping channel.
Royal commentator Richard Fitz Williams criticized Harry for damaging his reputation and family relationships by associating with Schamberg Lip, emphasizing the need for greater caution in choosing associations. Biographer Phil Dampier suggested that Harry's selfie was indicative of his and Meghan's declining popularity and finances in the US, describing it as a betrayal of family, country, and heritage. The incident has drawn parallels to Princess Diana's 1995 scandal when she was photographed with a fake sheikh in a sting operation, with critics cautioning Harry against falling into similar traps and urging him to distance himself from Schamberg Lip to avoid further ridicule.
