Their departure from the UK in early 2020 and their subsequent move to sunny California marked a pivotal moment in their lives. The initial announcement of their departure elicited mixed reactions.
However, it was the couple's subsequent candid interviews and claims against the Royal Institution that stirred controversy. They notably spoke with Oprah Winfrey and unveiled revelations in their Netflix documentary series in December. Furthermore, Harry continued to share his perspective through his tell-all memoir.
Omid Scobie, a journalist and co-author of "Finding Freedom: Harry and Meghan and the Making of a Modern Royal Family," offered insights into the couple's internal struggle. According to him, the Sussexes felt crushed by their decision to leave, believing it was the best choice for their family due to the perceived lack of support they received. Scobie emphasized that the decision, while not their preference, was unsurprising given the circumstances. The lack of support from the royal family had been an ongoing issue for the couple.
Their bombshell interview with Oprah Winfrey in March 2021 shed light on their grievances. Meghan, who was said to be overwhelmed with emotion, shared an emotional moment with Harry as they made the decision to step down as working royals. Their official exit was marked by Meghan's attendance at the Association of Commonwealth Scholars event, during which she whispered a poignant seven-word statement to Scobie: "It didn't have to be this way."
This emotional moment highlighted the difficulty of the decision they had to make. Since their departure, Meghan and Harry have settled in Montecito, where they are raising their two children, four-year-old Prince Archie and 2-year-old Princess Lilibet. The couple has not had face-to-face contact with the royal family in over a year, with their last visit occurring in September 2022 for the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II.
Harry returned to the UK earlier this year for the coronation of his father, King Charles III. His presence at the ceremony was marked by a distant demeanor as he watched from the third row at Westminster Abbey before swiftly returning home to Montecito. The timing of the event coincided with Archie's fourth birthday, emphasizing the physical and emotional distance that has grown since their departure from senior royal roles.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's journey to Montecito has been one of challenges, reflection, and ultimately, a quest for a life that better aligns with their values and aspirations. While they continue to face scrutiny and attention, their departure from the royal family was a deeply personal decision driven by their perception of a lack of support. As they navigate their way toward a more independent and fulfilling future, the question remains: How has the lack of support from the royal family influenced Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's journey since leaving their royal roles?
