Prince Harry Friend Breaks Silence as Meghan Markle Faces Blame Over Archie and Lilibet Future Move
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle latest decision involving their children has triggered fresh controversy as one of the Duke closest friends openly questioned the role Meghan played in the move. The unexpected criticism has reignited debate about how involved Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet should be in their parents public and philanthropic life.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex recently announced a major change to their charitable organisation revealing that the Archewell Foundation will now operate under the name Archewell Philanthropies. While the rebrand itself drew attention it was one particular line in the statement that quickly became the centre of discussion.
In the official announcement the Sussexes explained that the new structure would allow them and their children to expand their global philanthropic work together as a family. The inclusion of Archie and Lilibet by name raised eyebrows among royal watchers and former allies alike.
A close friend of Prince Harry speaking to the Daily Mail on January 1 did not hide his confusion. He questioned why the children were being mentioned so prominently when Harry and Meghan had previously insisted their son and daughter would grow up without pressure or expectation tied to royal status.
The source said he found it difficult to believe the idea came from Harry himself. According to him the decision reflected Meghan Markle influence rather than the Duke wishes describing the move as surprising given Harry long stated values.
Prince Archie now six was born in May 2019 while Princess Lilibet aged four arrived in 2021 after the couple relocated to California. Since stepping back from royal duties Harry and Meghan have repeatedly stressed their desire to protect their children from public scrutiny.
That stance makes the recent statement feel like a sharp pivot. Critics argue that referencing Archie and Lilibet in an official organisational announcement signals a shift toward gradually integrating them into the Sussex public brand.
The Archewell Foundation was originally launched in 2020 shortly after the couple departure from royal life. Named after their firstborn the organisation became the central pillar of their charitable and social impact ambitions.
Now rebranded as Archewell Philanthropies the change suggests a broader and more structured approach. However it also comes at a time when the organisation is facing behind the scenes turbulence that has not gone unnoticed.
Reports confirm that several staff members have recently exited the organisation. Among them is Kristen Slevin the director of programs and operations who left last month as part of a wider internal shake up.
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The Sussexes have also parted ways with their 11th publicist Meredith Maines adding fuel to speculation about instability within their communications team. Long time advisor James Bolt has also stepped down further highlighting ongoing changes.
Against this backdrop some royal commentators believe involving Archie and Lilibet may be a strategic attempt to soften public perception. By framing philanthropy as a family mission the Sussexes could be aiming to rebuild trust and emotional connection with audiences.
Others see the move as contradictory to Harry long held criticism of the pressures royal life placed on him as a child. For those critics mentioning the children even symbolically feels like a step too far.
The reaction has also sparked renewed discussion about Meghan Markle influence within the relationship. While supporters argue she is simply shaping a modern family centred approach detractors believe she is steering decisions that clash with Harry past convictions.
Notably the statement did not outline any specific roles or responsibilities for Archie or Lilibet. Their involvement appears to be conceptual rather than active but even that has proven enough to stir controversy.
Royal insiders suggest that Prince Harry may now be navigating a difficult balance between protecting his children privacy and building a sustainable public identity outside the monarchy. That tension has defined much of his post royal life.
As the Sussexes move forward with Archewell Philanthropies scrutiny is unlikely to fade. Every decision involving their children will be examined through the lens of past promises and public expectations.
Whether this marks the beginning of a gradual shift or simply a poorly worded statement remains to be seen. What is clear is that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle once again find themselves at the centre of debate over family influence legacy and control.
