While there were several factors that contributed to their ultimate decision to step back from their royal duties, one pivotal incident served as the last straw, pushing them to take that momentous step. Prince Harry and Meghan were deeply disappointed when a photograph of themselves and their newborn, Archie, failed to find its place among the collection of family portraits displayed on Queen Elizabeth's desk during her 2019 Christmas message.
According to the biography "Finding Freedom," this omission left the couple feeling excluded and believed that the royal family and senior staff were colluding to portray the monarchy as stable without their inclusion.
Though the wheels were already in motion for their departure from royal roles, the Queen's 2019 Christmas speech proved to be a significant catalyst. Traditionally, the Queen's annual address is delivered against the backdrop of touching family photos, whether it be at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle. In 2019, these photos featured King George VI, King Charles, Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip, the Prince and Princess of Wales with their children, among others.
Authors Omid Scobie and Caroline Durand, in "Finding Freedom," asserted that Harry and Meghan's absence from the desk photos was a clear indication that they were being marginalized within the establishment, no longer seen as an integral part of its future. As viewers tuned in to the green drawing room at Buckingham Palace, they were greeted with images of the royal family members, but notably absent was a photograph of Harry, Meghan, and their infant son, Archie.
Palace sources contended that the selected images were intended to represent the direct line of succession. However, for Harry and Meghan, this exclusion was a poignant signal that they needed to chart their own course.
It's worth noting that Harry and Meghan did feature in never-before-seen footage within that year's Christmas Day speech, showcasing the Queen and Prince Philip meeting baby Archie, accompanied by Harry, Meghan, and Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland. Yet, shortly after the New Year, a private photo shared by the royal family added to their dismay. This official image depicted the late Queen alongside her heirs, King Charles, Prince William, and young Prince George.
