Harry and Meghan’s Royal Exit: Money and Ambition at Play?
The departure of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from royal duties in 2020 may have been fueled by more than family issues. A new biography suggests that financial independence and personal ambitions were significant factors behind the move, opening a new chapter for the couple.
Financial Independence and Brand Building
According to royal biographer Valentine Low, the couple’s decision was driven by a desire for financial freedom. The ability to build their brand, participate in US politics, and generate their own wealth were all key motivators, as reported by the New York Post.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, after relocating to California, reportedly struggled to reconcile royal protocol with their personal goals. Meghan’s wish to earn money independently played a major part in their exit, according to Low. He writes that, “Some suspected that in the end, she wanted to make money. And the only way to do that was by leaving the royal life behind
.”
The couple initially proposed a hybrid model. They would engage in certain royal duties while living independently, though the Palace rejected it, citing the need to preserve the Crown’s neutrality. Queen Elizabeth II allegedly insisted that royals must adhere to protocol or step aside entirely.
Post-Royal Ventures
Their post-royal journey has included lucrative deals and strategic brand building. In 2020, they secured a $100 million content deal with Netflix. Markle has since launched a lifestyle brand and podcast. The couple has turned into high-profile entrepreneurs, expanding their business ventures on a global scale.
Their proximity to American politics has also drawn attention. Although they have not formally entered politics, both have supported the Biden administration. Meghan’s connections with top Democrats have sparked rumors about a possible political future.
In 2023, the couple launched a new website, Sussex.com, which further solidified their brand and showcased their various endeavors (BBC News).