Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to step back from the British royal family in 2020 was not just a matter of internal tensions or media exposure.
According to journalist and biographer Valentine Low, the real reason was their desire for financial independence and freedom to explore new areas, including politics in the United States.
Freedom and Finances Behind Sussexes’ Royal Exit
In his book Courtiers, Low asserts that the couple sought to disengage from the restrictions of royal protocol in order to generate income on their own.
They even evaluated less drastic alternatives, such as retaining some official duties or dedicating only part of the year to personal activities, but everything involved submitting to rules with which they disagreed.
Queen Elizabeth II, according to the author, was adamant: if they did not accept the rules governing active members of the family, they could not maintain their official duties.
Low also argues that Meghan, with a background as an actress, was clear about her goal of generating her own income again.
Since returning to the United States, she has embarked on personal projects such as a new lifestyle brand, a program for Netflix, a digital store, and a revamped podcast. All this after signing, together with Harry, a $100 million contract with the streaming platform.
In addition to the financial aspect, the author suggests that the couple wanted to get involved in US politics, something that goes against the principle of neutrality of the monarchy.
Although the Sussexes have never confirmed this intention, they maintain a close relationship with the Biden family. Meghan, in particular, has been touted as a possible political figure in the future, although she has not yet made any formal statements to that effect.