With the official exit of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from Frogmore Cottage, Prince Harry stands at risk of losing his last significant royal role, as suggested by royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams.
During the annual Sovereign Grant account briefing on royal finances, Sir Michael Stevens, the keeper of the Privy Purse, confirmed the Sussexes' exit, though he declined to elaborate on the specifics. "Safe to say that... the duke and duchess have paid for the expenditure incurred by the Sovereign Grant in relation to the renovation of Frogmore Cottage, thus leaving the Crown with a greatly enhanced asset," Stevens noted, as reported by Sky News.
While there have been reports that the keys to the property may be offered to Prince Andrew by King Charles III, Stevens stated, "We will not be discussing any details of the duke's private lease arrangements here today." A Buckingham Palace spokesperson further reinforced the statement, expressing that any information about future residents of the property would be included in the coming year's report.
The Sussexes' decision to leave Frogmore Cottage signifies an end to their physical presence in the U.K., which, given the reported discord with the royal family, may leave them reliant on hotel stays or friends' hospitality during their visits.
Commentator Fitzwilliams sees this development as a significant turning point, stating, "losing their U.K. home without a replacement is a huge deal." He further pointed out that this move could preclude Harry from his potential role as a counsellor of state. "That's hugely important because in theory, he had the right, in the event of the king being incapacitated, to do this," Fitzwilliams told The Sun.
He went on to argue that Harry and Meghan appear to be focusing on their U.S. audience, with little regard for their standing or roles in the U.K. This shift, Fitzwilliams suggests, could leave William unable to support his brother when he eventually ascends to the throne.
Despite having spent a substantial amount on renovations, the Sussexes spent little time at Frogmore Cottage due to their overseas royal commitments. Following their withdrawal from royal duties in 2020, they agreed to pay rent on the property to secure a U.K. residence during visits.
The residence holds sentimental value, having been the venue for their daughter, Princess Lilibet's first birthday and their attendance at Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee celebrations and funeral.
In March, a Sussex spokesperson announced they were asked to vacate Frogmore Cottage. The belongings were reportedly moved to their Santa Barbara, California home by the end of May, where they now live with their children, Prince Archie, 4, and Princess Lilibet, 2.
The timing of this request, following the release of their Netflix documentary "Harry & Meghan" and Harry's memoir "Spare", stirred considerable controversy. Harry's last U.K. visit and potential stay at Frogmore was for King Charles III's coronation on May 6.
