‘WHY DON’T THEY GET IT?’  Meghan and Harry’s impulsive mistakes prove they’re not Royals – they think they’re authentic but keep failing

Royal correspondents have pinpointed the thing the couple get wrong time and time again

SINCE stepping back from the royal family, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and have gone about things in a very non-traditional way.

From their Netflix documentary series, Harry’s bombshell book, and now Meghan’s podcast – the couple have gone down many different roads to show their authenticity.

The couple have tried various ventures since stepping back from the royal family Credit: Getty

Harry and Meghan’s Royal Journey: Reflections and Lessons Learned

In recent years, few stories have captivated the global audience quite like that of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Their journey—from royal insiders to independent figures forging their own path—has been marked by moments of triumph, controversy, and introspection. As the couple stepped back from their roles as senior royals in 2020, their decisions sparked debates about duty, family, and personal freedom. This article explores the key moments in their royal tenure, the challenges they faced, and the lessons they may have learned along the way, offering a balanced perspective on their transformative experience.

A Fairytale Beginning

When Harry and Meghan announced their engagement in 2017, the world was enchanted. Meghan, an American actress known for her role in Suits, brought a fresh perspective to the British monarchy. Her charisma, mixed-race background, and advocacy for social causes promised to modernize the institution. Harry, the beloved younger son of Princess Diana, had long captured hearts with his approachable demeanor and dedication to charitable causes. Their union was hailed as a symbol of progress, blending tradition with inclusivity.

The couple’s wedding in May 2018 at St. George’s Chapel was a global spectacle. Millions tuned in to watch Meghan walk down the aisle in a timeless Givenchy gown, while the ceremony incorporated elements of her heritage, such as a gospel choir performing “Stand By Me.” For many, it was a moment of hope—a sign that the monarchy could evolve to reflect a more diverse, interconnected world. However, beneath the surface, challenges were already brewing.

Meghan’s As Ever brand launched recently, but not without a hitchCredit: Getty

According to royal correspondents, the pair keep making the same mistakeCredit: The Mega Agency

The Weight of Royal Life

Life within the royal family is governed by protocol, duty, and public scrutiny. For Meghan, transitioning from Hollywood to Kensington Palace was no small feat. Unlike other royals born into the system, she faced a steep learning curve. The British press, known for its relentless coverage, began dissecting her every move—from her fashion choices to her interactions with staff. Reports of tensions with palace aides and disagreements over her role emerged, painting a picture of a woman struggling to find her place.

Harry, too, faced pressures. Having grown up under the media’s gaze, he was fiercely protective of his wife. The couple’s frustration with tabloid intrusion grew, particularly as stories appeared to target Meghan disproportionately. In 2019, Harry issued a rare public statement condemning the press for what he described as a “ruthless campaign” against Meghan, drawing parallels to the treatment of his late mother, Princess Diana. This move, while heartfelt, set the tone for their strained relationship with the media.

The Turning Point: Stepping Back

By January 2020, Harry and Meghan announced their decision to step back as senior royals, a move that sent shockwaves through the monarchy and the public. Their statement outlined a desire to carve out a “progressive new role” while remaining financially independent. The decision, dubbed “Megxit” by the press, sparked polarized reactions. Supporters praised their courage to prioritize mental health and personal freedom, while critics accused them of shirking duty and disrespecting the Queen.

The couple’s exit was not without complications. Negotiations with the royal family led to the Sandringham Summit, where it was agreed they would relinquish their HRH titles and repay funds used for their Frogmore Cottage residence. They relocated to Canada, then California, seeking privacy and new opportunities. However, their departure raised questions about their future role and whether they could balance independence with their royal ties.

Media Battles and Public Revelations

In the years that followed, Harry and Meghan sought to tell their story on their terms. Their 2021 Oprah Winfrey interview was a bombshell, revealing allegations of racism within the royal family, concerns about Meghan’s mental health, and a lack of support from the institution. Meghan shared that she had experienced suicidal thoughts during her pregnancy with Archie, while Harry spoke of feeling trapped by his role. The interview drew sympathy from many but also criticism for airing private grievances publicly.

Their Netflix docuseries Harry & Meghan (2022) and Harry’s memoir Spare (2023) further peeled back the curtain on their experiences. Harry detailed his strained relationship with Prince William and the emotional toll of losing his mother, while Meghan reflected on the cultural challenges she faced. These projects amplified their narrative but also fueled accusations of hypocrisy, as critics argued they sought privacy yet courted publicity. The couple’s openness highlighted a key lesson: transparency can humanize, but it also invites scrutiny.

Lessons Learned

Reflecting on their journey, Harry and Meghan’s story offers insights into the complexities of royal life and personal growth:

Navigating Public Scrutiny: The couple underestimated the intensity of media attention. Their legal battles against tabloids, including a successful lawsuit against the Mail on Sunday, showed their determination to fight back. However, they may have learned that selective engagement with the press could have preserved some goodwill.

Balancing Duty and Freedom: Stepping back was a bold move, but it came at the cost of family ties and public support. The couple’s desire for independence clashed with the monarchy’s rigid structure, suggesting that compromise might have eased their transition.

Cultural Adaptation: Meghan’s American background brought vibrancy but also friction. Her advocacy for causes like gender equality was admirable, but palace protocol often stifled her voice. A slower integration might have bridged the gap between her values and royal expectations.

Family Dynamics: Harry’s loyalty to Meghan mirrored his mother’s protective instincts, yet public disclosures strained his relationships with William and King Charles. The couple may have realized that private resolutions could have preserved familial harmony.

Building a New Path: Since leaving, Harry and Meghan have launched Archewell, their foundation focused on mental health, media literacy, and community support. Projects like Meghan’s American Riviera Orchard brand and Harry’s Invictus Games show their commitment to impact. However, they’ve learned that commercial ventures require careful branding to avoid perceptions of exploiting their royal status.

The Road Ahead

Today, Harry and Meghan are carving out a life far removed from Buckingham Palace. Their Montecito home is a sanctuary for their children, Archie and Lilibet, and a base for their philanthropic work. While they’ve faced setbacks—such as the Spotify deal ending in 2023—their Netflix partnership and upcoming projects signal resilience. Harry’s focus on mental health advocacy and Meghan’s storytelling ventures reflect their desire to leave a positive legacy.

Public opinion remains divided. Some view them as trailblazers who challenged an outdated system, while others see their actions as divisive. The monarchy, too, has evolved in their absence, with King Charles and Prince William taking on new roles amid health challenges for the King and Kate Middleton. Whether reconciliation is possible remains uncertain, but Harry’s brief visits to the UK suggest a lingering connection.

Harry and Meghan’s royal journey is a tale of love, ambition, and reinvention. Their story underscores the tension between individual desires and institutional expectations, a struggle that resonates beyond palaces. While mistakes were made—missteps in communication, timing, and strategy—their resilience offers hope. As they continue to build their future, the lessons of their past will guide them, proving that even in the face of adversity, growth is possible. Their legacy, like their journey, will be one of complexity, courage, and change.