Royal expert Catherine Mayer has posed a heartbreaking seven-word question as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's 'dream crumbles' following their departure from the Royal Family. In her book, Divide and Rule: Royal Women and Their Battles, she asks: 'How and why did that dream crumble?'
From Royal Highs to Turbulent Times
Meghan Markle officially joined the Royal Family in 2018, and the future appeared bright for her and Prince Harry. However, the couple stepped back from royal duties in 2020 and moved to the US, embarking on a life of their own that has been marked by challenges. Mayer notes that initially 'everyone looked set to win'—from the monarchy's reputation to Harry marrying his wife and Meghan taking on a royal role.
But, according to Mayer, there were 'forces and factors that derailed her hopes and ours.' She explains that Harry and Meghan's marriage briefly elevated Harry to an all-time popularity peak, even above Queen Elizabeth II, while Meghan ranked as high as sixth place. However, Meghan soon learned the difference between manageable celebrity and her new level of fame: 'one opens doors, the other imprisons you.' Mayer adds, 'for all but a lucky few, what goes up must come down.'
Planned Return to the UK
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are set to return to the UK in July 2026 for the first time in four years as a family. The visit marks the one-year countdown to the 2027 Invictus Games, which will be held in Birmingham. Prince Harry and Meghan are expected to travel with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Their last family visit to the UK was in 2022 for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee celebrations; they also returned later that year for the late monarch's funeral.
Since 2020, the Sussexes have resided in Montecito, California. Harry remains a prince and is fifth in line to the British throne. The couple kept their titles but are no longer referred to as His or Her Royal Highness.
