The history of the British royal family has been marked by moves that have changed the traditional dynamic of Buckingham. Among these, Harry and Meghan's decision to step back from their roles as senior members has undoubtedly been one of the most impactful.
However, far from keeping the interest and support of the audience, the couple has seen their popularity decrease considerably. This decline has presented them with challenges that test their adaptation to life outside the monarchy.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have lost much support
It was in 2020 when the Duke and Duchess of Sussex announced that they would step back from the royal family to seek financial independence. That announcement surprised many and sparked an intense debate about the future of the monarchy.
At the time, the couple was at the height of global recognition. In 2019, Time magazine included them among the 25 most influential people in the world, and Meghan, years earlier, had been recognized as a trendsetter and a headline-maker.
But the initial shine has gradually faded. What began as a search for anonymity and autonomy has turned into a path full of difficulties, including a fall in public esteem and legal and personal challenges that were not foreseen.
The decision to move away from the protected environment of the British crown triggered a series of unforeseen consequences for the couple. Now, they face the challenge of rebuilding their identity and forging their own legacy, far from the shadows of the past.
Prince Harry's complicated decision after his farewell from Buckingham
One of the most recent episodes that has drawn attention is Harry's intention to consider a surname change for his children. Harry even contemplated the possibility of adopting the maternal surname, Spencer, instead of keeping the traditional Mountbatten-Windsor.
"They had a very friendly conversation and (the Earl) Spencer advised him not to take that step," a person close to Harry revealed. This idea could not be carried out, mainly due to the legal barriers that prevented it.
The birth certificates of Archie and Lilibet Diana still show the surname Mountbatten-Windsor, confirming that, despite the intentions, tradition and official regulations continue to set the limits of autonomy within the royal lineage.
This episode highlights the tension between the desire to break with the past and the reality of being part of a historic institution. The deeply rooted rules and symbols make any attempt at total disassociation difficult.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle continue their path far from the palace. Their personal and professional decisions will continue to be the subject of attention and analysis as they try to build a new stage that seeks to define them beyond the walls of Buckingham.