Why Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Stepped Away From Royal Life — and How It Changed Everything

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stunned the world when they stepped away from royal life. Their decision reshaped the modern monarchy, strained family ties, and launched a new chapter defined by independence, advocacy, and global attention far beyond palace walls.

When Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced they were stepping down as senior members of the British royal family, the news sent shockwaves across the world.

The couple’s choice marked one of the most dramatic breaks from royal tradition in modern history. What followed was a complete redefinition of their roles, their relationship with the monarchy, and their public lives.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex did not simply change jobs. Instead, they changed their future, and that of their children.

The Announcement That Changed Everything

In January 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan publicly confirmed they would step back as senior working royals. The announcement came after months of speculation and intense media scrutiny. Their plan included becoming financially independent and splitting time between the United Kingdom and North America.

The decision was unprecedented in the modern royal era. While members of the royal family have stepped away from public duties before, none had done so with the global visibility and influence that Harry and Meghan commanded.

Despite stepping down, Prince Harry retained his title as a prince and remains fifth in line to the British throne. Meghan also retained her title as Duchess of Sussex. However, the couple agreed they would no longer use the style His or Her Royal Highness in any official capacity.

Media Pressure and Mental Health Struggles

One of the primary factors behind their departure was relentless press intrusion. Meghan, a former actress, faced constant tabloid coverage from the moment her relationship with Harry became public. Much of that coverage was widely criticized for its tone and persistence.

Meghan later spoke openly about her mental health struggles during her time as a working royal. She described feeling isolated and unsupported while adjusting to royal life under constant public scrutiny. Prince Harry has also spoken about how the press treatment of his wife echoed the experiences of his late mother, Princess Diana.

These pressures contributed to the couple’s belief that stepping away was necessary for their well-being and the safety of their family.

A New Life in California

In June 2020, Harry and Meghan relocated to California. They eventually settled in Montecito, a quiet coastal community known for privacy and celebrity residents. Their move reflected a desire for stability and a more controlled environment in which to raise their son, Archie.

The couple has remained in California since then. They later welcomed a daughter, Lilibet, further anchoring their life in the United States.

Although they are no longer working royals, they gradually transitioned toward financial independence through media deals, public speaking, and nonprofit efforts.

Titles, Roles, and Royal Changes

Harry and Meghan married in 2018 after meeting two years earlier. Their royal wedding was watched by millions worldwide and symbolized a modernizing monarchy. However, stepping down required sacrifices.

Prince Harry gave up his honorary military titles, a deeply personal loss given his decade of service in the British Army. While he remains a prince by birth, his role within the institution fundamentally changed.

When Prince Charles became King Charles III in 2022, Archie and Lilibet became entitled to the titles of Prince and Princess. This shift reflected royal protocol rather than a return to working royal status.

Maintaining Ties to the United Kingdom

Despite living in the United States, Prince Harry has continued to visit the United Kingdom on several occasions. These trips have included charity events, legal matters, and family engagements.

During one such visit in September 2025, Harry reportedly met briefly with King Charles at Clarence House. While their relationship has faced strain, the meeting suggested that communication remains open, even if complex.

Meghan has made fewer trips to the UK, choosing to focus on their life and work in California.

Advocacy Beyond the Palace

Stepping away from royal duties did not end the couple’s commitment to public service. Prince Harry remains closely involved with the Invictus Games, the international sporting event he founded for wounded and injured service members.

Together, Harry and Meghan continue to support causes related to mental health, gender equality, and community empowerment. While their approach differs from traditional royal patronages, their advocacy remains central to their public identity.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to step away from royal life was more than a personal choice. It reshaped how the public views the monarchy, the media, and modern celebrity influence. By leaving behind royal tradition, the couple gained autonomy but also invited ongoing scrutiny.

Despite it all, their story continues to evolve. The choice they made in 2020 changed everything, not only for themselves, but for the royal family they left behind.