Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Love Story: How Their Relationship Began and Where It Stands Today

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s relationship reshaped the modern monarchy. From a private romance to stepping away from royal life, their love story has unfolded under intense scrutiny while redefining family, independence, and public service.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s relationship has been one of the most closely watched love stories of the modern era. Their romance challenged royal traditions, sparked global conversations, and ultimately led the couple to chart a new path outside the British monarchy.

Together, they have navigated love, loss, parenthood, and public pressure while building a life centered on family and personal purpose.

Going Public With Their Relationship

In November 2016, Prince Harry confirmed he was dating Meghan Markle after meeting through a blind date. He released a rare public statement on the matter, thinking it was essential to address the abuse Meghan was experiencing online.

In it, he criticized media harassment and urged the public to protect Meghan and her family. The announcement marked an early indication that Harry was prepared to break royal precedent to defend his partner.

First Appearances and a Growing Bond

By May 2017, Meghan made her first public appearance alongside Harry when she attended a charity polo match to support his nonprofit work. That summer, the couple grew even closer during a three-week trip to Africa to celebrate Meghan’s 36th birthday.

They visited Botswana and Zambia, locations that held deep personal meaning for Harry and strengthened their bond away from public view.

Engagement and Royal Integration

In November 2017, Kensington Palace announced the couple’s engagement. It was confirmed that Harry had sought and received the blessing of Queen Elizabeth II and his family before proposing.

Shortly afterward, it was revealed that they would live together at Nottingham Cottage within Kensington Palace.

Meghan officially joined the royal family for Christmas at Sandringham in December 2017, attending church services at St. Mary Magdalene Church alongside senior royals, a rare honor for an unmarried partner.

A Royal Wedding and Growing Family

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle married on May 19, 2018, at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor. Following the ceremony, they became the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

In October 2018, Kensington Palace announced that the couple was expecting their first child while they were on their first royal tour of Australia and New Zealand.

Their son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, was born on May 6, 2019. Two days later, the couple introduced him to the world during a photo call at Windsor Castle.

Stepping Away From Royal Life

In January 2020, after a six-week break from royal duties, Harry and Meghan shocked the public by announcing they would step down as senior working royals.

Two months later, they attended their final official engagements in the United Kingdom, including the Endeavour Fund Awards and the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey.

Loss, Healing, and New Beginnings

In November 2020, Meghan revealed that she had suffered a miscarriage earlier that year in a deeply personal essay. Months later, the couple quietly relocated to Montecito, California, purchasing a $14 million estate in Santa Barbara County.

In February 2021, Meghan announced she was pregnant again. The following month, the couple sat down with Oprah Winfrey for a widely viewed interview, where Meghan discussed mental health struggles and alleged racism within the royal institution.

Welcoming Lilibet and Honoring Family

Their daughter, Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, was born on June 4, 2021. Her name honored both Queen Elizabeth II, whose childhood nickname was Lilibet, and Princess Diana.

In September 2022, Harry and Meghan returned to the United Kingdom to attend Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral, briefly reuniting publicly with Prince William and Princess Catherine.

Establishing Life in the United States

Two years later, in March 2025, Meghan addressed her name during her Netflix series, "With Love, Meghan," explaining why she now prefers being referred to as Meghan Sussex, emphasizing the importance of sharing a family name with her children.

Where They Stand Today

Throughout 2025 and into January 2026, Harry and Meghan continued making selective public appearances across the United States. Meghan remained active with her media projects and shared glimpses of their family life on Instagram.

In January 2026, the couple attended the Sundance Film Festival for the premiere of the Girl Scouts documentary "Cookie Queens," which they executive produced. The film was directed by Alysa Nahmias and reflected their ongoing interest in storytelling and advocacy.

Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan's love story continues to evolve beyond palace walls. From a carefully guarded romance to forging an independent life in the United States, their journey reflects resilience, unity, and devotion to family. As they move forward, their relationship remains defined by choice, partnership, and a shared vision for their future.