Experts and insiders believe Prince Harry is starting to grasp just how much he’s sacrificed since stepping away from his royal duties and relocating to the United States with Meghan Markle and their son, Archie. As time passes, the Duke of Sussex is reportedly feeling the weight of his decision to move across the pond, with reflections on what his life might have been had he remained a working royal.
Daily Mail editor and broadcaster Richard Eden recently revealed details of the Duke’s supposed inner struggle. Citing a well-placed source, Eden spoke about the mounting realization that Harry is slowly coming to terms with the consequences of his departure from the Royal Family.
This source, described as an “old pal” of the Duke, commented on what Harry might have gained had he chosen to stay in his royal role. “Imagine the difference if they were still working royals,” the insider began, pointing out the contrast between the life Harry now leads and the one he left behind. “They would be the centre of attention wherever they went,” said the source, referring to the elevated status that comes with being active members of the Royal Family.
The source continued by highlighting that Harry and Meghan, had they remained working royals, would not merely be attending high-profile events as guests. Instead, they would have held prestigious roles as patrons of organizations and charities, giving them a more meaningful impact. In contrast, their current situation often sees them attending events as high-profile figures, but without the same degree of official recognition and responsibility.
It is believed that Harry’s recent solo engagements have brought these realizations to the forefront. Over the past few weeks, the Duke has been actively involved in charity work, both in the US and abroad. His work with WellChild and Sentebale, a charity he co-founded in 2006 to support African orphans,
And children affected by HIV/AIDS, likely reminded him of the deep connections and sense of purpose that come with his royal ties. According to the insider, “I think Harry’s work over recent weeks with WellChild and Sentebale will have brought home to him how much he has lost by moving to the States.”
In recent months, Harry has taken several solo trips, including a visit to New York for charity work, his attendance at the WellChild Awards in the UK, and a journey to South Africa with members of the Spencer family. These trips, where Harry was greeted with respect and admiration for his charitable work, might have evoked memories of the life he once had as a senior royal.
Meghan, too, has been carving out her own path. While Harry was busy with his commitments, the Duchess of Sussex attended a solo engagement at the LA Children’s Hospital Gala. However, despite their individual pursuits, experts suggest that the couple’s solo activities highlight the stark difference in their current roles compared to the high-profile status they once held.
Read More: Prince Harry Sends Kensington Palace into Chaos After Terrifying Stunt
The shift from being senior royals to high-profile celebrities in the US has come with both gains and losses. While Harry and Meghan enjoy more personal freedom in their new lives, it’s becoming clearer how much they’ve left behind.
As working royals, they held significant influence and carried the weight of centuries-old traditions and responsibilities. Now, while they continue to make headlines and support various causes, their roles lack the same official gravitas they once enjoyed.
For Prince Harry, who has always had a deep passion for charitable work, the absence of official patronages and royal duties may be particularly hard to accept. His recent charitable engagements likely served as reminders of the impactful work he was once able to do within the framework of the monarchy. The question remains whether this growing realization will prompt a change in how Harry and Meghan approach their future roles.
As for the Royal Family, they continue to carry on with their duties, though the absence of Harry and Meghan is still felt by many. Whether or not there will ever be a reconciliation between the Sussexes and the rest of the royals remains uncertain. However, what’s clear is that the path Harry has chosen comes with both its own unique set of challenges and, for him, a growing awareness of what could have been had he stayed within the royal fold.
As time goes on, only Harry and Meghan can decide how they want to navigate their lives moving forward, but the reflections on their past may continue to play a significant role in shaping their future decisions.
