Prince Harry’s refusal to turn down an award despite suffering a furious backlash has been branded “a clear symbol of desperation” by an insider.
The Duke of Sussex is set to be given the memorial award set up in the name of Pat Tillman in Hollywood on July 11.
However, there has been a furious reaction to Harry’s nomination for the award including public criticism from Tilman’s mother.
A petition demanding ESPN rethink their decision, claiming the Duke of Sussex had been “involved in controversies that call into question his suitability to receive an honour of this magnitude” has now reached 70,000 signatures.
Prince Harry’s refusal to turn down an award despite suffering a furious backlash has been branded “a clear symbol of desperation” by an insider.
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The petition says “awarding this honour to someone who does not reflect the award’s intent diminishes its value and disrespects Tillman’s memory.”
An insider criticised the Duke of Sussex’s decision to accept the award following the outpouring of anger at his nomination.
They told the Daily Beast: “I’m afraid it’s just a clear symbol of his desperate need for attention.
“The irony of the whole of the last four years is that Harry and Meghan said they were leaving the Royal Family so the media would leave them alone.
“And now, here Harry is, literally picking up retail awards on live TV. It’s pathetic.”
An insider criticised the Duke of Sussex’s decision to accept the award following the outpouring of anger at his nomination.
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Pat Tilman gave up a lucrative career in the NFL to enlist as an Army Ranger in 2002.
The US war hero served in Iraq and then Afghanistan, where he was killed by friendly fire in 2004.
One television consultant, who works for Disney and ESPN, said the backlash to the award will draw in bigger ratings for the ceremony.
They said: “Prince Harry getting this award has drawn insane eyeballs to this show.
ESPN released a statement highlighting the Duke of Sussex’s achievements with the Invictus Games following the backlash.
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“The fact that so many people are talking about Harry and this honour will delight those at the top. They will stand firm on him getting it and also behind closed doors be excited that such a decision has prompted such interest in this night.
“Like it or loathe it, Harry draws interest and potentially bigger ratings – so they will keep him there.”
Last week, ESPN released a statement highlighting the Duke of Sussex’s achievements with the Invictus Games following the backlash.
The organisation said: “ESPN, with the support of the Tillman Foundation, is honouring Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, specifically for the work of The Invictus Games Foundation as it celebrates its 10th year promoting healing through the power of sport for military service members and veterans around the world.
“While we understand not everyone will agree with all honorees selected for any award, The Invictus Games Foundation does incredible work and ESPN believes this is a cause worth celebrating.”