The late Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, was reportedly left deeply disappointed by Meghan Markle’s inability to adapt to life within the British Royal Family, according to royal experts. Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, stepped down from her role as a senior royal alongside her husband, Prince Harry, in early 2020.
Their decision to leave royal duties and move to the United States marked a dramatic shift that stunned both the public and the monarchy itself. According to royal commentator Ingrid Seward, the Duke of Edinburgh struggled to comprehend Meghan’s choices, especially in light of the sacrifices he had made during his lifetime of service to the Crown.
Speaking to Sky News in 2020, Seward said: “I think he’s very, very disappointed because I think he feels he gave up his naval career to stand by the Queen and help the monarchy.” “And why can’t Meghan just give up her acting career, support her husband, and support the monarchy?” she continued. “He just cannot understand why she couldn’t support Harry and help him rather than wanting to have her voice.”
Prince Philip, who served in the Royal Navy before dedicating his life to supporting Queen Elizabeth II, was known for his deep commitment to duty and service. His traditional views on royal responsibilities reportedly made it difficult for him to accept Meghan’s independent stance and desire for personal freedom.
Seward added that the Duke found the situation not only confusing but personally upsetting. “Of course, it irritates him hugely,” she said. “And when they had the Sandringham Summit, Prince Philip was seen leaving the house very swiftly before they all arrived. He simply doesn’t want to get involved anymore.”
The Sandringham Summit, held in January 2020, was a key meeting between senior members of the Royal Family to discuss the future roles of Prince Harry and Meghan. Prince Philip’s absence from the critical talks was seen by some as a reflection of his frustration and desire to distance himself from the contentious discussions.
While Meghan and Harry have since built a new life in California, including media ventures and philanthropic work, the impact of their departure from royal life continues to reverberate through the family. Though Prince Philip passed away in April 2021 at the age of 99, the strains caused by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s exit remain a notable chapter in modern royal history.