Well, I didn’t see it coming… although maybe I should have… it was only earlier this week when Chris Ship told Good Morning Britain that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle‘s UK life was “over.”
Although an official decision wasn’t expected until the end of March, People Magazine reported that Harry and Meghan should expect to lose their patronages and honorary titles from Buckingham Palace.
I recently argued to an entertainment news producer that I didn’t anticipate such a drastic decision unless the Oprah interview went south. No one has really been in a position to contribute the way they would have wanted to over the last pandemic year. I expected – maybe – an extension of the Megxit probation.
Was this announcement an effort to change the narrative? Or have the Duke and Duchess of Sussex been presented with such incredible opportunities in California that it’s time to officially cut ties with any responsibilities that might hold them back? Or what if they’re just sick of Piers Morgan’s commentary?
Buckingham Palace made the official announcement on Friday, “Following conversations with The Duke, The Queen has written confirming that in stepping away from the work of The Royal Family it is not possible to continue with the responsibilities and duties that come with a life of public service. The honorary military appointments and Royal patronages held by The Duke and Duchess will therefore be returned to Her Majesty, before being redistributed among working members of The Royal Family.”
The Queen has continuously maintained that she loves and respects Harry and Meghan’s decisions and reiterates that within Buckingham Palace’s statement today… “While all are saddened by their decision, The Duke and Duchess remain much-loved members of the family.”
The Sussex’s spokesperson responded by saying, “As evidenced by their work over the past year, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex remain committed to their duty and service to the U.K. and around the world, and have offered their continued support to the organizations they have represented regardless of official role. We can all live a life of service. Service is universal.”
While we will miss seeing Harry and Meghan in an official royal capacity, we know that they will continue to promote good in the world. We wish the Duke and Duchess good luck and look forward to seeing what they have planned for their future.
Kinsey Schofield is the Founder of To Di For Daily and you can follow her on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook.