A Five-Year Retrospective

Five years ago, on January 8, 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle sent shockwaves through the royal family and the world with their announcement that they would be stepping down as working royals. In a statement posted to their then-joint Instagram account, the couple declared their intention to "carve out a progressive new role" and become financially independent, while still supporting the Queen.

This decision marked a significant turning point in the lives of Harry and Meghan, and it continues to be a topic of much discussion and debate. Some have praised their courage and independence, while others have criticized their actions and questioned their motives.

The couple's departure was followed by a period of intense scrutiny and media attention. They faced criticism for their decision to step back from royal duties while still retaining their titles and patronages. Additionally, their subsequent move to California and signing of a lucrative deal with Netflix further fueled the controversy.

In March 2021, Harry and Meghan gave a bombshell interview to Oprah Winfrey, in which they made a series of allegations against the royal family, including claims of racism and a lack of support for Meghan's mental health struggles. These allegations further damaged their relationship with the family and led to a significant decline in their popularity with the British public.

Today, five years after their departure, Harry and Meghan continue to live in California with their two children, Archie and Lilibet. They have established their own charitable foundation and pursued various business ventures. While their relationship with the royal family remains strained, they have also spoken about their desire to heal and rebuild bridges in the future.

The decision of Harry and Meghan to step down as working royals was a momentous one, with far-reaching consequences for both the couple and the monarchy. As the fifth anniversary of this event approaches, it is clear that the debate surrounding their actions and their impact on the royal family is far from over.