Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are stepping down from being senior royals so they could focus on their family and charities. Although the Duke and Duchess of Sussex initially still wanted to collaborate with Queen Elizabeth in their future projects, the palace announced that the couple can “no longer formally represent” Her Majesty in their new lives.
After the couple’s discussion with Queen Elizabeth, Prince Charles, and Prince William, it was decided that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will completely step back from royal duties as of spring of 2020. Since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were a huge part of the royal family, their withdrawal will definitely leave a massive impact.
“Harry, Meghan, and Archie will always be much-loved members of my family,” Queen Elizabeth said via a statement by Buckingham Palace. “Together we have found a constructive and supportive way forward. I recognize the challenges they have experienced as a result of intense scrutiny over the last two years and support their wish for a more independent life. It is my whole family’s hope that today’s agreement allows them to start building a happy and peaceful new life.”
Many speculated that Prince Edward and his wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex would be stepping up their royal duties. Royal Central’s Lydia Starbuck sees this as a huge possibility.
“Whether it’s cycling her way through Scotland and England in support of the Duke of Edinburgh Award (another cause to which she is deeply committed) or traveling around the UK to lend her support to children’s charities, Sophie’s schedule is consistent and filled with days that add a depth to royal work,” she said. “It’s no wonder that’s won her fans inside and outside Palace doors.”
However, Lydia Starbuck also suggested that a young royal could take over Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s role at The Firm. Prince Edward and Sophie, Countess of Wessex’ 16-year-old daughter Lady Louise Windsor, who’s is the 13th in line of succession to the British throne, had been tagging along with her parents in some royal engagements. It could be a hint that she is being prepared for a bigger role in the royal family.
So, are Prince Harry and Meghan Markle out, and Lady Louise Windsor in? It is still a little too early to predict the future of the royal family household. But, the Buckingham Palace is expected to release more information regarding the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's withdrawal soon.
