In a recent development, royal expert Richard Eden has called on Prince Harry to reject the controversial Pat Tillman Award. Eden, who is the diary editor for the Daily Mail, expressed his views during the Daily Mail's Palace Confidential podcast, joined by fellow royal commentators Rebecca English and Charlotte Griffiths.

Eden emphasized that Prince Harry should take the honorable route and refuse the award, stating, "'You know what, actually, I won't accept this because the last thing the organizers of this event want is this kind of controversy.'"

The Pat Tillman Award for Service was announced on June 27, with Prince Harry set to receive the prestigious accolade at the 2024 ESPYs. Named after former NFL player Pat Tillman, who tragically lost his life due to friendly fire in 2004, the award was created in 2014 to honor individuals who have made significant contributions echoing Tillman's legacy.

Prince Harry's nomination for the award is based on his service in the British Armed Forces, including two tours of duty in Afghanistan as an Apache helicopter pilot and a forward air controller. Furthermore, he is recognized for establishing the Invictus Games in 2014, a Paralympic-style event for wounded or injured servicemen and veterans.

While Prince Harry expressed his gratitude upon learning about the honor, Tillman's mother, Mary, expressed her outrage, claiming that she was never consulted about the decision to honor him. She criticized ESPN for choosing a "controversial and divisive individual" and emphasized the existence of more fitting recipients within the veteran community.

In response, ESPN defended its choice, reiterating that Prince Harry is being recognized for the work done through the Invictus Games Foundation in promoting healing for military service members and veterans worldwide. Kate Jackson, VP of Production at ESPN, lauded the group of honorees, including Prince Harry, for their resilience, positivity, and contribution to marginalized and suffering communities.

However, not everyone within the ESPN network is in agreement with the decision. Analyst Pat McAfee accused his own network of intentionally stirring controversy, expressing his disbelief at picking Prince Harry as the recipient.

Richard Eden echoed similar sentiments, asserting that the award is meant to honor individuals who prioritize service over personal gain, and thus suggested that Prince Harry, if he possesses a sense of shame, should decline the award.

The ESPYs, where the Pat Tillman Award will be presented, are scheduled to air on July 11 at 8 p.m., hosted by tennis legend Serena Williams. The controversy surrounding Prince Harry's nomination adds an additional layer of interest to the event, sparking debates and discussions over the appropriateness of his selection for this esteemed honor.