Prince Harry's recent public appearances alongside Meghan Markle have reignited speculation about growing tension behind the scenes, with insiders claiming the Duke of Sussex feels increasingly overshadowed and micromanaged by his wife. The 40-year-old royal, once dubbed the "spare" to his older brother Prince William, is now reportedly feeling the same sense of marginalization in his marriage.
At Meghan's high-profile Time 100 appearance at New York's Lincoln Center on April 23, Harry appeared uncomfortable as he attempted to help his wife out of their car, only to be brushed aside while she greeted a woman. A source described the moment as symbolic: "Meghan was the one who insisted on Harry being by her side in New York, and he didn't argue," the insider said. "But the way it all went down with him essentially following her around the whole time was just more reason for him to want to do his own thing."
Critics and royal watchers have taken note. Royal commentator Darren Stanton told Express UK, "Meghan is more dominant than Harry when it comes to the dynamic of their relationship." He added, "When Meghan and Harry attend events together, you will notice Meghan looking into Harry's eyes to signal when it is time to move on - a big power gesture. It shows him who the boss is - and that she makes the final call."
The Duke of Sussex's discomfort has become a topic of concern among his circle. "People are calling him henpecked and it's really starting to bother him," one source said. "It's no wonder he's doing more solo trips." The couple's diverging priorities reportedly fuel the tension, with Harry desiring a quieter, more private life, while Meghan continues to build her brand in the public eye.
"She eats very healthy, has a trainer and goes to the gym five days a week," a source told The National Enquirer, describing the Duchess's routine. "She's dedicated to looking her best. She sees it as part of her job." The contrast with Harry's current appearance has also drawn internal scrutiny. Following photos of him leaving a London courtroom on April 8, talk of his "bloated" face spread quickly. "It's probably a combination of too much alcohol and salt, and not enough exercise," an insider claimed.
That contrast has allegedly led Meghan to pressure Harry to slim down. "She says they have an image to uphold," a source said. "Word is she wants him back with the trainer, and eating fewer chips and more celery sticks."
Despite the claims of imbalance, Stanton noted that Meghan reacts positively when Harry takes charge. "We know this through Meghan displaying genuine smiles and feeling more relaxed when Harry takes the lead," he said. "Her posture remains upright, but she's more at ease - showing the confidence she has in him."
Still, others close to the couple suggest Harry feels increasingly diminished. "Harry puts on a brave face, but he is treated like Meghan's show pony much of the time," one insider remarked. "It's causing a lot of frustration... showing up and hovering awkwardly in the background as she soaks up all the adulation and leaves him like a spare part is proving to be excruciating and kind of demeaning."
