Prince Harry never wanted to fully leave the Royal Family, according to an expert who says the Duke of Sussex had hoped to retain some of his royal duties. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped down from their positions as senior royals in 2020 and moved to California.
At the time, their decision was widely interpreted as a complete break from royal life. However, cultural critic Kristen Meinzer told the Daily Express UK that Harry’s intention was not to abandon his role entirely. “Harry has repeatedly said that it was never his intention to completely surrender his senior royal duties,” Meinzer explained.
The couple’s proposal, which some described as a “half in, half out” arrangement, would have allowed them to serve the monarchy part-time while pursuing independent projects. But Meinzer said Queen Elizabeth II did not allow such an arrangement.
“But the queen did not grant Harry and Meghan the same opportunity, nor did the institution treat the racism Meghan faced with the seriousness it warranted,” Meinzer said. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle left their roles in 2020, taking their young son Archie with them.
Their decision led to deep tensions within the Royal Family, which later intensified after they spoke publicly about their experiences. The couple accused members of the Royal Family of racism, particularly regarding their son, and criticized the institution for failing to support them.
Since relocating to California, Harry and Meghan have built new lives away from royal duties. They launched media ventures, philanthropic initiatives, and welcomed their daughter, Princess Lilibet.
Despite the distance, Harry has remained vocal about his complicated relationship with the monarchy. He has emphasized both his love for his family and his disappointment with how the institution handled challenges faced by him and Meghan.
The Duke has spoken candidly in interviews and a memoir, making clear that his departure was not meant as a total rejection of royal life. Instead, it was a move shaped by circumstances, including the lack of support and the refusal of the monarchy to allow a more flexible role.
As debates about the Sussexes continue, experts like Meinzer suggest that Harry’s original vision of balancing royal duty with independence might have prevented some of the division that has since unfolded. The Queen’s decision to reject the hybrid role ultimately set the path for the couple’s complete departure.
Harry and Meghan’s story continues to generate public attention, with ongoing discussions about their role, their criticisms of the monarchy, and their lives in the United States.