Harry and Meghan pose for first magazine cover for ‘Time’s’ most influential list

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been named by Time Magazine as two of the world’s top 100 most influential people. And to mark the momentous occasion, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are gracing the cover of the magazine’s print issue.

The list is broken into six categories: Icons, Pioneers, Titans, Artists, Leaders and Innovators. The pair, who stepped back as working royals in March 2020, made the list in the Icons category, which also includes pop star Britney Spears, country superstar Dolly Parton and tennis pro Naomi Osaka, and were honoured for their humanitarian work, namely with their Archewell Foundation.

On the cover, Meghan struck a wide-legged pose, while Harry stood slightly behind her, with his hand on her shoulder. The duchess sported a white button-up and matching pleated pants, while the duke wore a long-sleeved black shirt and matching pants for the shoot.

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“Prince Harry and Meghan are among the 100 most influential people of 2021,” Time Magazine captioned the post. “‘In a world where everyone has an opinion about people they don’t know, the duke and duchess have compassion for the people they don’t know. They don’t just opine. They run toward the struggle,’ writes @chefjoseandres.”

Social media users were quick to congratulate the couple on their achievement, with one writing: “Love them, well deserved, to a beautiful couple inside and out. They have helped so many charities and organisations.” Another added: “What a power couple.”

However, others mocked the magazine cover, with one person commenting: “This magazine front cover truly represents the dynamics of their relationship.” Another added: “The prince looks like he is hiding behind her, physically and fashionably. Trying too hard.”

Harry and Meghan addressed the honour on the Archewell website following the news. Their statement read: “Prince Harry and Meghan, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, are not only humbled to be part of this year’s TIME 100 through the words of friend and partner José Andres, but to also write in praise of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for the publication’s annual list of Most Influential People.”