Waldina –
Five years ago, in one of the most talked-about moments in recent British royal history, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made the decision to step back from their royal duties.
This bold move, commonly referred to as “Megxit,” set the stage for a dramatic shift in the couple’s lives, away from the intense spotlight of the royal family and into a more private, independent existence.
As the anniversary of their departure approaches, Meghan and Harry have taken time to reflect on the monumental decision that altered the course of their lives forever.
A New Beginning
In January 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced their intention to “step back” from their roles as senior members of the royal family. The news sent shockwaves through the UK and beyond, prompting media scrutiny, public debate, and a wave of speculation about their reasons for wanting to leave. Many saw it as a rejection of the traditional royal life, which the couple had felt stifled by.
Since then, Meghan and Harry have forged a path of their own, creating a life centered on activism, philanthropy, and family. They relocated to North America, eventually settling in Montecito, California, where they have raised their children, Archie and Lilibet, away from the glaring public eye they had known in the UK.
In the years that followed, the couple has opened up about their decision to step away, giving insights into the challenges they faced, as well as the relief they felt in taking control of their own destiny.
Struggles and Pressures
Both Meghan and Harry have expressed how difficult it was to live under the constant media scrutiny that came with being part of the royal family. In various interviews, including their landmark sit-down with Oprah Winfrey in 2021, the couple has revealed how they felt trapped by the institution’s expectations and relentless press coverage.
Leonardo DiCaprio and Vittoria Ceretti Indulge in a Fun-Filled Day at the Beach in St. Barts
Meghan spoke openly about the toll it took on her mental health, even recalling moments where she felt suicidal due to the isolation and relentless public criticism she faced, particularly from the British tabloids.
Prince Harry has similarly discussed how the pressures of royal life, combined with the weight of his own family legacy, led him to feel “helpless” at times. He mentioned how, after his mother Princess Diana’s tragic death, he had struggled with feelings of anger and confusion, leading him to take drastic steps to protect his own family from suffering a similar fate.
Both have also reflected on the sense of freedom they felt when they left the UK and distanced themselves from the pressures of royal expectations. “We were trapped in the system,” Harry stated in their Netflix documentary, Harry & Meghan, released in 2022. “But now we can choose to do what is right for us, as a family.”
New Beginnings: Advocacy and Philanthropy
Since stepping away from royal duties, Meghan and Harry have used their newfound independence to pursue various advocacy efforts, focusing on social justice, mental health awareness, and environmental causes. They founded Archewell, their non-profit organization, which focuses on advancing global compassion and creating positive change in society.
Meghan has continued her work as an advocate for women’s rights and gender equality, speaking at global events and writing for platforms such as The New York Times. She also launched her podcast, Archetypes, where she explores the pressures women face based on stereotypes and cultural expectations. Meanwhile, Harry has been deeply involved in mental health initiatives, particularly through his work with Heads Together, a project founded by him and his brother, Prince William, to raise awareness of mental health issues.
Together, they have pushed for greater transparency and change in the royal family, with a particular focus on the mental well-being of its members. Their actions have sometimes been met with criticism from those within the royal sphere, but Meghan and Harry have stood by their convictions, emphasizing that their actions come from a place of wanting to create a more compassionate world.
Family and Privacy
Perhaps the most significant aspect of Meghan and Harry’s life after the royal exit is their commitment to family and privacy. The couple has often spoken about the importance of protecting their children from the media frenzy they themselves endured. In their 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, they described how the birth of their son, Archie, was marred by negative press coverage and public scrutiny. Since moving to California, they have worked hard to shield their family from the public eye, giving them a semblance of normalcy and allowing them to grow up outside the spotlight.
In a 2022 interview, Harry revealed how fatherhood had changed his perspective, noting that it has strengthened his resolve to protect his family. “Having children changes everything,” Harry shared. “It gives you a sense of purpose, and you want to make the world a better place for them.”
As they reflect on their royal departure five years later, Meghan and Harry remain committed to their values and their mission to create a better future. Despite the challenges they have faced, they are determined to carve out a path that aligns with their beliefs and provides a foundation for their children’s future.
While the couple’s departure from royal life has led to mixed reactions from the public, there’s no doubt that Meghan and Harry have found their own way to make an impact, advocating for causes they are passionate about and working to foster a more inclusive and compassionate society. As they continue their journey, it’s clear that their royal exit was not just a break from tradition but a reimagining of what it means to lead a life of purpose and authenticity.
Looking ahead, it’s likely that Meghan and Harry will continue to face public scrutiny, but with a stronger sense of self and a clear vision of the future they want to create—for themselves and for their children.
Leave a Comment