The Royal Family's website has reportedly deleted a heartfelt statement posted by Prince Harry in 2016, confirming his romance with and defending Meghan Markle. Harry's message, which had been live for seven years, was removed from the site by the end of 2023, according to a recent report.
In November 2016, Prince Harry released a statement aimed at the United Kingdom's press, expressing his frustration after his then-girlfriend Meghan Markle became the target of negative publicity. Following news of their romance becoming public, Meghan faced a wave of abuse and harassment from the media.
Harry's statement, which was previously accessible through a link on the Royal Family's website, is now inactive. The last known functioning date for the link was December 3rd, 2023, with it becoming non-functional by December 10th of the same year.
In the statement, Prince Harry condemned the press's treatment of Meghan, expressing deep disappointment that he hadn't been able to protect her. He emphasized that it was not acceptable for Meghan to be subjected to such scrutiny and harassment simply because of her relationship with him.
The Prince's words conveyed his concern for Meghan's safety and well-being, stressing the need for privacy and respect for their relationship. However, Harry found himself facing backlash from certain members of the Royal Family for his outspoken stance.
In his book "Spare," Prince Harry revealed that his statement had provoked anger from within the Windsor family. Both King Charles and Prince William were reportedly furious, questioning why Harry had chosen to speak out when they had never issued similar statements for their own partners in the face of media harassment.
Despite the removal of Harry's defense of Meghan from the Royal Family's website, a statement issued by Buckingham Palace in 2021 regarding the couple's decision to step back from their roles as working royals remains accessible. The statement expresses sadness at their decision but reaffirms their status as beloved members of the family.
Since stepping back from their royal duties in March 2020, Harry and Meghan have significantly reduced their ties to the monarchy. They have relocated to California and now live independently, with their royal profiles on the official website reflecting their diminished roles within the royal hierarchy.
Despite their new life outside the royal fold, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle still retain their royal titles and continue to be figures of public interest, now residing in Montecito, California, with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
