Prince Harry has suffered another public setback, this time from music legend Sir Elton John. Once a close friend and supporter of the Duke of Sussex, Elton John harshly criticized Harry’s closing speech at the 2025 Invictus Games during an appearance on *The Graham Norton Show*. Calling the speech “absolute trash,” Elton’s candid remarks have intensified the wave of criticism already surrounding Harry’s performance, which many are labeling one of the most embarrassing moments of his career.
During the show, host Graham Norton introduced the topic of the Invictus Games, likely expecting Elton to share positive remarks about the event. Instead, the iconic singer shocked the audience by rolling his eyes and dismissing Prince Harry’s speech as “a total waste of time.” Elton reportedly mocked Harry’s delivery, describing it as self-indulgent and out of touch.
“I sat through it and thought, *What on Earth is this nonsense?*” he allegedly quipped, adding that it felt like watching someone desperately trying to stay relevant. The audience responded with laughter, amplifying the sting of Elton’s criticism.
Elton John’s criticism carries significant weight due to his longstanding history with Prince Harry. He was one of the few celebrities who publicly defended Harry and Meghan Markle when they stepped down from royal duties. Elton even provided them with his private jet during the backlash over their carbon footprint controversy. However, sources suggest that Elton has grown increasingly frustrated with the couple’s ongoing victimhood narrative and their repeated use of royal connections for personal gain.
The backlash to Harry’s speech at the Invictus Games was already mounting before Elton’s comments. Attendees reported that the address felt self-centered, lacking both energy and focus on the veterans the event was meant to honor. Some audience members even walked out, further adding to the embarrassment.
A clip of Elton John’s comments from *The Graham Norton Show* quickly went viral, with social media users applauding the singer for expressing what many had been thinking. Supporters of the Sussexes argued that Elton’s comments were taken out of context, but the damage was already done. Many users praised Elton for his honesty, with some remarking that it was about time someone from Harry and Meghan’s inner circle spoke out.
The big question now is how Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will respond. Meghan, known for her strategic media moves, may attempt to control the narrative through friendly media outlets. However, given Elton John’s global influence, reshaping the story may be difficult.
This latest controversy highlights the growing isolation of Prince Harry and Meghan within their former social circles. As more allies distance themselves, the couple faces increasing scrutiny. Whether this serves as a wake-up call for Harry or simply another misstep in a series of public relations blunders remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the spotlight on the Sussexes is more unforgiving than ever.
