Prince Harry and Meghan Markle married six years ago and have remained in the headlines ever since.
They stepped away from royal life within two years, later earning millions by sharing their experiences, including controversial claims about the monarchy. Meghan alleged that a royal questioned Archie’s potential skin color, a shocking revelation from their Oprah interview.
Harry also believed the British press treated Meghan unfairly, fearing their relationship wouldn’t last. Their story began with a one-hour date in London in 2016, setting the stage for years of public scrutiny.
Prince Harry & Meghan Markle
Harry and Meghan began dating in secret, even keeping it from King Charles. By 2018, they married at St. George’s Chapel, with many believing they would shape the Royal Family’s future—an idea that didn’t age well.
Their four years in the royal spotlight were tough, especially for Meghan, who struggled with media scrutiny. Like Camilla and Kate before her, Meghan became a prime target for tabloids eager to dig into her past and sell stories. By 2020, the couple had left royal life behind.
However, one thing was different in Meghan’s case. As per reports, she was the subject of racist remarks – and her husband, Prince Harry, was having none of it. In November 2016, he decided to put out a statement that not only confirmed that he and Meghan were dating but also looked to defend her from the racist abuse she had been the victim of.
Prince Harry was “terrified” that Meghan would leave him, royal expert claims
Kensington’s former communications secretary, Jason Knauf, defended Meghan in a rare statement, condemning the racism and sexism she faced.
Harry echoed this in Spare, revealing he pushed for a strong response. His statement, however, angered King Charles and Prince William, who felt it made them look bad.
The Duke added: “Why in hell? Because they’d never put out a statement for their girlfriends, or wives when they were being harassed. We needed a statement out there—within a day we had a draft. Strong, precise, angry, honest.”
Prince Harry was “terrified” that Meghan would leave him, royal expert claims
The royal website has removed Harry’s 2016 letter to the press, but the reason remains unclear. Royal commentator Angela Levin revealed that Harry was “terrified” Meghan would leave him when he wrote the letter accusing the media of racism.
Levin recalled being warned to tread carefully during an interview with Harry, as he was deeply anxious about Meghan. She noted that while Harry wanted the letter to stand as a rebuke to the press, the palace likely removed it to distance itself from past controversies.
In 2020, Harry and Meghan left royal life for good. Together with their son, Archie, and Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland, they left the UK on a private jet, which Harry dubbed the “freedom flight”.
“They will pat themselves on the back”
Prince Harry and Meghan have profited from their ventures, but tensions with the Royal Family remain high, with Prince William refusing contact.
Royal expert Ingrid Seward told The Sun that while Harry is financially successful, he is not a success “as a man.” However, she praised him as a husband and father, noting his marriage to Meghan has lasted despite doubts.
Seward added that Harry is no longer celebrated in the UK but remains content in his life with Meghan.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliam also commented on Harry and Meghan’s marriage, saying they look “very well matched” from the outside.
Harry and Meghan’s Nigeria trip left royals “furious”
Harry and Meghan’s recent trip to Nigeria, though private, had the feel of a royal tour. Their growing activities, including Meghan’s American Riviera Orchard and Netflix projects, and Harry’s polo series, suggest they are forging their own path.
While their marriage appears strong, opinions on them remain divided. Their visit drew criticism for resembling an “unofficial royal tour” and allegedly straining the Royal Family’s Commonwealth ties. Future similar trips—and possibly including Archie and Lilibet—are now being discussed.
Royal expert Tom Bower suggested that Harry and Meghan were playing the “royal card,” and author Phil Dampier stated that the Nigeria visit seemed “ironic” since the Sussexes had previously criticized the Commonwealth.
Harry and Meghan are “forming an alternative royal family,” expert claims
Harry and Meghan appear to be shaping their own version of a royal presence, historian Gareth Russell suggests. By branding themselves as “The Office of Harry and Meghan,” they invite greater scrutiny, especially regarding their commercial ventures and unofficial tours.
Russell speculates that this shift could be an attempt to improve their public image after recent controversies, possibly positioning themselves as “royals in exile.” While their popularity in the U.S. remains low, public sentiment is unpredictable. Signs indicate they may embark on a U.S. tour soon.
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