It looks like Chef José Andrés, known for his humanitarian work, has officially distanced himself from Harry and Meghan, opting instead to align with a more prominent royal figure: Prince William. Andrés, who was once close with the Sussexes, has now joined Prince William’s Earthshot Prize board. Previously, Andrés was seen as the Sussexes’ golden boy, with their support pouring hundreds of thousands of dollars into his organization, World Central Kitchen. The relationship was once celebrated with the enthusiasm of a high school romance, with Harry and Meghan praising him as a long-time friend and partner, and Andrés referring to them as dear friends who bring hope and empathy to every community. It all seemed very idealistic—until now.
Now, the celebrity chef is standing alongside Prince William and Sir David Attenborough for Earthshot, a prestigious initiative that awards $5 million prizes to innovators addressing climate change. This move comes in contrast to Harry’s previous dismissal of Earthshot in 2020, when he mocked small-scale awards and claimed they made little impact. Ironically, this is the same Harry who has accepted awards himself for relatively minor achievements, while Harry and Meghan have been lauded for their own award-giving efforts, which may or may not be effective.
William’s Earthshot Prize is making real strides in saving the planet, unlike the Sussexes’ more symbolic gestures, such as distributing drums to a school in Colombia. Earthshot is empowering genuine innovators with tangible solutions, and Andrés has clearly chosen to be part of this impactful endeavor.
So, what does this shift mean for Harry and Meghan? In a word: humiliation. A reputation management consultant suggests that Andrés’s defection highlights the shifting power dynamics between the two royal brothers. While Harry and Meghan struggle to maintain relevance, William is securing prestigious allies. This change stings especially since Andrés was heavily promoted by the Sussexes during the pandemic. Faced with the choice between staying with Harry and Meghan in California or teaming up with the future King of England, Andrés chose the more promising option.
Chef Andrés, known for his hands-on approach and dedication to real results, contrasts sharply with the often performative philanthropy of the Sussexes. Despite their public displays of support for Andrés’s projects, there’s little evidence of their behind-the-scenes involvement. Andrés clearly values alignment with Earthshot, which promises meaningful environmental change, over the Sussexes’ more superficial efforts.
Ultimately, Andrés has made a smart and calculated move, aligning with a program that reflects his own values and is likely to generate positive publicity for both his organization and William’s cause. Meanwhile, Harry and Meghan are left scrambling for new allies as yet another friend departs for greener and more royal pastures.