Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been living independently from the royal family for several years. After a brief stay in Canada, the couple permanently left royal life in 2020, settling in Montecito, California. Despite their new ventures, many of their business ties still connect back to the royal family.
Strained Family Relations
Their relationship with the UK royal family has significantly deteriorated due to their outspoken criticisms of “the Firm.” The couple was evicted from their UK home, yet recent reports indicate Harry’s interest in establishing a permanent residence in his homeland.
Departure and the Freedom Flight
The Sussexes’ departure from the UK on their “freedom flight” left many wondering about their true reasons for leaving. Harry’s memoir Spare later provided insight into their decision, detailing why the UK would not be their home for the foreseeable future.
A New Life in the US
Relocating to the US signified a fresh start, far removed from the royal duties that Harry had performed for years. This major life change, initially for their family of three, was managed despite its magnitude. Since then, they have welcomed their daughter, Princess Lilibet, expanding their family.
Seeking Privacy Amidst Public Scrutiny
While seeking a more private life, Harry and Meghan’s public accusations against the royal family have kept them in the spotlight. Their tell-all interviews, Netflix series, and Harry’s memoir Spare have sparked worldwide attention.
Business Ventures and Public Perception
The couple has embarked on various business ventures. Meghan launched the American Riviera Orchid lifestyle brand, though its reception was less favorable than anticipated. She faced criticism for a perceived attempt to overshadow Kate Middleton’s return to royal duties.
Falling Out with the Royal Family
Harry and Meghan’s relationship with the royal family remains fraught. Harry is estranged from his brother, Prince William, and Meghan and Kate Middleton are considered archrivals.
The Announcement That Shook the World
On January 8, 2020, Harry and Meghan announced their departure from royal life, aiming to become financially independent while continuing to support Queen Elizabeth II and their patronages. They expressed plans to balance their time between the UK and North America.
Initial Reactions and Underlying Issues
The announcement reportedly shocked Queen Elizabeth and Prince William. Issues within the royal family and intense scrutiny from the British press contributed to their decision to leave. Meghan’s struggles with the media and the lack of support from the royal hierarchy were key factors.
Harry’s Reflections on Their Departure
In Spare, Harry revealed the deep-seated reasons for their departure, citing concerns for their mental and physical safety. Despite renovating Frogmore Cottage, their intended permanent UK home, they left it behind amid fears for their well-being.
The Eviction from Frogmore Cottage
Following the release of Spare, King Charles decided to evict Harry and Meghan from Frogmore Cottage, ending their right to use it as their UK base.
Harry’s Yearning for the UK
Despite settling in California, Harry reportedly misses aspects of his life in the UK, including his army and college friends. He is said to be seeking a permanent home in the UK and is continuing legal action to secure taxpayer-funded security.
Regrets and Reflections
Royal experts suggest that Harry may regret his departure from royal life, missing events like Trooping the Colour. In contrast, Meghan appears indifferent to such ceremonies, focusing instead on carving out her own path.
The Complex Legacy of Their Decision
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to step back from royal duties continues to resonate. Their journey reflects a complex interplay of seeking independence, dealing with public scrutiny, and navigating strained family relationships. As they build their lives in the US, their story remains a compelling chapter in the ongoing narrative of the British royal family.
