PR expert, Mark Borkowski, has criticized the palace’s handling of the recent controversy surrounding a digitally modified image of Princess Kate Middleton and her children, shared publicly on March 10, 2024. Borkowski asserts this incident could have been better managed, considering the increasing importance of digital transparency.
Public debate and global media interest rose as scepticism grew regarding the photo’s authenticity. The undisclosed image modifications pose serious threats to the Royals’ image representation leading to potential erosion of public trust, according to Borkowski. He warns that such actions can have lasting effects on the palace’s reputation.
In response to the growing controversy, Princess Kate admitted to occasional photo alterations and apologized for any misunderstandings caused by the retouched image. Kate expressed regret for any negative implications this incident might have conveyed and apologized for any discomfort caused.
Borkowski criticized not only the retouched image’s release but also the palace’s handling of its aftermath. He claims the palace’s response only exacerbated the scenario, increasing doubts about the authenticity of future content. This situation, Borkowski suggests, has shed light on shortcomings in the palace’s management approach, urging immediate attention and strategy revisions.
The palace’s long-standing “never complain; never explain” PR strategy also came under Borkowski’s criticism. He believes this approach merely fuels public speculation due to its lack of clarity on ongoing situations.
Borkowski drew upon examples from past instances of backlash on public releases, like a Mother’s Day image, outlining that better reactions could have possibly mitigated the misunderstandings. Borkowski also emphasizes the need for effective communication to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Despite ongoing rumours about Princess Kate’s health, based on unconfirmed sightings of her post her last public appearance on March 4, there has been no official statement from the palace.
