In January 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle sent shockwaves through Britain by announcing their intention to “step back” as senior members of the Royal Family.
Their dramatic decision – quickly dubbed “Megxit” in the media – sparked an ongoing saga that has bitterly divided public opinion ever since.
But what exactly motivated the Sussexes to turn their backs on royal life?
Why did Harry and Meghan leave the Royal Family?
There were several key factors behind Harry and Meghan’s split from the House of Windsor.
By far the biggest was their desire to escape the intense media scrutiny and lack of privacy they faced in the UK.
Harry was still deeply traumatized by the hounding of his mother Diana by the tabloids, which he blamed for her death.
Meghan too became a paparazzi target, with many negative stories about her in the press.
The couple were dismayed by the Palace’s failure to protect them from media intrusion.
Another major issue was the Sussexes’ wish to break free of long-standing royal conventions and seek financial independence.
They were frustrated by tight controls on their public statements and activities.
Harry and Meghan wanted to build their own media profile and charitable brand but clashed with the Palace over using the word “Royal” commercially.
There were also tensions with Prince William and Kate, fueled by Meghan’s uncomfortable experience of royal protocol.
Some reports suggested the two brothers had fallen out. Something that was confirmed in Prince Harry’s memoir ‘Spare’.
Additionally, the couple felt sidelined within the slimmed-down monarchy and craved a bigger platform for their ambitions.
Ultimately, in stepping down as senior royals, Harry prioritized his wife and young family’s wellbeing over duty to the institution.
The move allowed them to relocate to Meghan’s home state of California to pursue independent careers and income streams away from the restrictions of royal life.
However, the need to relinquish military and charitable links also left Harry feeling a profound sense of loss.