Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are facing a wave of speculation surrounding the state of their marriage, with insiders suggesting that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are leading increasingly separate lives.
The rumors have intensified following Harry's recent solo appearances, notably during his "world tour" that included stops in Africa, New York, and London-without Meghan by his side. According to sources, the couple has been drifting apart, with Harry reportedly eager to reconnect with his old life in the UK, while Meghan focuses on her entrepreneurial pursuits in Hollywood.
Harry's solo engagements have raised eyebrows, particularly his trip to Africa to work with the Sentebale charity, which he co-founded in 2006. The Duke, who once worked closely with Meghan to promote their joint foundation, Archewell, appeared without her at ten engagements over a span of 15 days, including the WellChild awards in London. Harry's absence from home has fueled rumors that the couple is living separate lives, both personally and professionally. A source told RadarOnline, "Harry and Meghan are going to live separate lives-and have a blueprint for doing so."
Harry celebrated his 40th birthday away from Meghan, spending the day hiking with friends, which only heightened speculation. According to insiders, the prince's desire to reconnect with his life in the UK, including his old friends and activities like going to the pub and playing sports, has created a strain in their marriage. "Harry's hated their bids for stardom with Netflix and Spotify, and he's starting to miss England," a source revealed. "The life Meghan wants in LA-focused on juicing and yoga-seems alien to Harry's English roots."
The last time Meghan was seen publicly was the day before Harry's birthday, with reports suggesting that the Duchess has also been spending more time away from their home in Montecito. According to sources close to the couple, Meghan has been "barely at home" in recent weeks, while Harry was reportedly seen "moping around" a local cafe alone. However, friends of the couple have pushed back against rumors of marital trouble. A confidante told People, "It is normal for couples not to do everything together."
Despite the speculation, sources insist that the couple remains happy and united. They are simply pursuing separate professional interests-Harry focusing on his patronage work and Meghan delving into the world of Hollywood and entrepreneurship. "The Duke and Duchess have hit their stride as individuals," an insider shared. "They're professionally on twin tracks, with Harry focusing on charity and Meghan exploring business opportunities."
Nevertheless, some royal insiders have raised concerns about the long-term impact of the couple's increasingly independent lives. "Harry's plans to pursue his own activities and tours away from Meghan is the first sign of a 'trial separation' while they work things out," one source told RadarOnline. Friends have reportedly expressed concerns about the couple drifting apart, particularly as Harry's trips have kept him away from home for extended periods.
Additionally, there have been signs of instability within their professional ventures. Ashley Hansen, Archewell's communications chief for two years, recently announced that she would be stepping down to start her own PR firm. Though Hansen will continue advising the couple, her departure marks another shakeup in the Sussex camp.
Since stepping down as senior working royals in 2020, Harry and Meghan have faced public scrutiny regarding their post-royal ventures, from their Netflix deal to various media projects. Their efforts to build a life outside the royal family have not come without challenges, and now it appears that their personal lives are under the same intense spotlight.
While rumors swirl about the state of their marriage, those close to the couple maintain that Harry and Meghan are focused on their family and careers. The Duke and Duchess currently reside in California with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, and continue to chart a path that diverges from their former royal duties. Only time will tell how the couple navigates these personal and professional challenges moving forward.
