Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's decision to step back as senior royals in 2020 has inflicted "very serious damage" on the British monarchy, according to royal author Catherine Mayer. Mayer, author of "Divide & Rule," posits that the couple's relocation to the United States and subsequent public expressions of grievances have diminished the monarchy's standing, particularly among younger demographics.
Mayer stated that the departure caused "very serious damage to the monarchy" but emphasized that this does not equate to blaming the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. She noted that recent polling indicates a decline in the monarchy's popularity, suggesting a loss of ground with the public.
The "Suits" alum, who celebrated her 45th birthday on August 4, had planned to accompany her husband on several engagements during his recent U.K. visit. However, security concerns prevented Meghan and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, from the full trip. While the couple had a private meeting with King Charles and Queen Camilla on July 10, marking Meghan's first return to England since 2022, she made no public appearances.
Following their step down as working royals, the Sussexes lost their taxpayer-funded security. Prince Harry has since advocated for its reinstatement, citing safety concerns for his family.
Mayer suggested that while Prince Andrew's controversial association with Jeffrey Epstein has also contributed to public perception issues, the Sussexes possessed a unique ability to connect with younger audiences, an appeal that is now absent from the rest of the royal family. She identified Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, as potential successors in connecting with younger generations but noted their more conservative approach and their position in their 40s with young children.
Royal broadcaster Ian Pelham Turner echoed Mayer's sentiments, suggesting that unresolved family divisions persist. He pointed to potential friction between King Charles and Prince William regarding the Sussexes, particularly following a recent private meeting at Highgrove that reportedly left William uninformed.
Mayer also addressed past allegations of bullying made against Meghan Markle, suggesting they surfaced at a time intended to undermine her interview with Oprah Winfrey. She indicated that friction within the palace predated these stories, though she clarified this doesn't necessarily confirm bullying but rather significant institutional friction.
Mayer explained that the monarchy operates on a unique cultural system where loyalty to the monarch and the direct heir is paramount. She suggested Meghan may not have fully grasped this dynamic, particularly when perceived as a figure overshadowing the institution itself. Mayer concluded that it was "highly unlikely" Meghan could have succeeded within the royal system, attributing this not solely to her but also to the inherent nature of the institution, which she described as a medieval structure with modern elements, including strict protocols like an order of precedence even in private settings.
Helena Chard, a British broadcaster and photographer, advised that adaptation is key for individuals marrying into the royal family. She contrasted Catherine's approach to learning the institution with Meghan's, stating that while the system offers support, it cannot assist someone unwilling to "play ball." Chard believes that while better handling might have delayed their departure, it likely wouldn't have prevented it.
Royal expert Hilary Fordwich, however, argued that the Sussexes' actions have been a "fundamentally damaging, deliberate strategy to undermine the royals, which is unforgivable." Fordwich asserted that the monarchy has become narrower and more disciplined as a result, attributing this to Meghan's alleged focus on self-aggrandizement over duty.
Chard concluded that while the "damage has been done," the royal family has moved forward, prioritizing its future. She acknowledged that reconciliation remains a possibility but emphasized that rebuilding trust will require considerable time from all parties involved.