The British royal family’s distrust of Meghan Markle, 43, and Prince Harry, 40, has deepened since their 2017 engagement, fueling public tensions that persist into July 2025. According to biographer Phil Dampier, Prince William has long believed Meghan saw Harry as a stepping stone to fame and fortune, a view echoed by the late Queen Elizabeth II, as shared by her cousin, Lady Elizabeth Anson. The scrutiny, which began before their 2018 wedding, intensified after the couple’s exit from royal duties in 2020, dubbed “Megxit.” Now living in Montecito, California, Harry and Meghan face growing estrangement from William and King Charles III, worsened by controversial interviews, books, and documentaries. The royal family’s lack of trust continues to block reconciliation, while the couple pursues independent ventures in the United States.
Dampier’s revelations, published in one of the UK’s most established newspapers, have reignited discussions about the strained ties between the Sussexes and the monarchy. She noted that William’s early suspicions about Meghan shaped the rift between the brothers, who have not spoken in nearly two years.
The atmosphere of skepticism is not new. Meghan’s entry into the royal family was marked by cultural clashes and unmet expectations from the start.
- Key moments in Meghan and Harry’s royal journey:
- Engagement announced in November 2017.
- Wedding held in May 2018 at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor.
- Official exit from royal duties in January 2020.
Roots of royal skepticism
Lady Elizabeth Anson, cousin of Queen Elizabeth II, confided to a biographer that the monarch viewed Meghan as calculating, possibly driven by motives beyond her affection for Harry. This perception emerged shortly after the engagement, as the queen noticed Meghan’s approach diverged from royal traditions. The wedding, while celebrated as a modern milestone, drew internal criticism for its unconventional elements, such as a gospel choir and an American preacher.
Biographer Sally Bedell Smith reported that Elizabeth II, despite publicly supporting the couple, privately expressed unease about Meghan’s lack of transparency during the event’s planning. The queen, known for her discretion, preferred a more protocol-driven approach.
William shared these concerns. According to Dampier, he saw Meghan’s marriage to Harry as a means to boost her global profile and wealth, a belief that distanced him from his brother early on.
Brotherly divide
The once-close bond between William and Harry unraveled after Harry’s marriage to Meghan. Dampier stated that William’s early doubts about Meghan sparked tensions. In his 2023 memoir, “Spare,” Harry disclosed a physical altercation with William during an argument about Meghan, a revelation that stunned the public and deepened their estrangement.
The brothers’ last known interaction was at Charles III’s coronation in May 2023, with no meaningful exchange. Insiders suggest William intends to strip Harry and Meghan of their royal titles upon becoming king, reflecting his resolve to shield the monarchy from further controversy.
The lack of direct communication between the brothers, ongoing for about two years, underscores the severity of their fallout. Harry has expressed a desire for reconciliation in interviews, but no progress has been reported.
Departure from royal life
Harry and Meghan’s decision to step back from royal duties in January 2020, known as “Megxit,” was a turning point. The couple cited a need for financial independence and a desire to raise their children, Archie, 6, and Lilibet, 3, away from media scrutiny. They relocated first to Canada, then to Montecito, California, settling in a $14 million mansion.
Their exit was followed by public criticisms of the royal family, including allegations of racism in a 2021 Oprah Winfrey interview. The 2022 Netflix series “Harry & Meghan” and Harry’s 2023 memoir “Spare” revealed intimate details of royal life, further fueling distrust from the monarchy.
- Major post-Megxit controversies:
- Oprah interview claiming racist remarks within the royal family.
- Netflix documentary exposing family tensions.
- “Spare” memoir criticizing William and Charles III.
Independent ventures in the US
After leaving the monarchy, Harry and Meghan secured lucrative deals. A five-year, $100 million Netflix contract produced their documentary and projects like “Polo,” a series about Harry’s sport. Their Archewell Foundation focuses on philanthropy, including a 2024 anti-cyberbullying campaign filmed in Colombia.
Meghan’s lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, faced delays due to trademark issues but is set to launch in 2025. Harry continues work with Sentebale, a charity he founded in 2006 to support African youth.
However, their finances show vulnerabilities. The end of a $15 million Spotify deal and the nearing expiration of the Netflix contract have raised concerns. Harry relies on a $10 million inheritance from Princess Diana, but long-term stability remains uncertain.
Strained ties with Charles III
King Charles III, diagnosed with cancer in 2024, maintains a distant relationship with Harry. A 2025 BBC interview where Harry discussed his father’s health caused friction, as Charles felt the issue was exploited publicly. Harry insisted his comments aimed at reconciliation, but the king remains guarded.
Writer Esther Krakue claimed Charles and courtiers perceive Harry as “controlled” by Meghan, reinforcing views that she drives the couple’s decisions. This perception has stalled efforts to rebuild ties, despite Harry’s appeals.
Diana’s family response
When Harry introduced Meghan to his mother’s sisters, Lady Sarah McCorquodale and Lady Jane Fellowes, he hoped they would see parallels between Meghan and Diana’s compassion. Instead, the aunts felt Meghan did not fit royal dynamics, as detailed in Tom Bower’s biography “Revenge: Meghan, Harry and the War Between the Windsors.”
This early rejection deepened Harry’s sense of isolation. The lack of support from his aunts, combined with criticism from William and Elizabeth II, influenced the couple’s decision to leave the monarchy.
Financial realities and lifestyle
Life in the US has brought significant expenses for Harry and Meghan. Their Montecito mansion, purchased with a $9.5 million mortgage, incurs monthly payments estimated at $50,000 to $100,000. Security costs, which Harry unsuccessfully sought to have covered in the UK, add further strain, as the couple no longer receives automatic police protection there.
Diana’s inheritance and commercial deals have supported their lifestyle, but reliance on short-term contracts poses risks. Meghan’s forthcoming brand could provide new revenue, though it faces stiff competition in a crowded market.
- The couple’s income sources:
- Netflix deal ($100 million, until 2025).
- Diana’s inheritance ($10 million).
- Archewell Foundation and related initiatives.
Public support and backlash
Harry and Meghan retain a loyal following, particularly in the US, where they are viewed as symbols of autonomy. However, Meghan’s Instagram post omitting Archie’s “prince” title sparked speculation about voluntarily relinquishing royal titles, amid rumors William may revoke them.
The royal family maintains its distance. A 2025 humorous video by influencers at Buckingham Palace, mocked by the royal Instagram account, indirectly targeted Harry and Meghan, signaling the monarchy’s readiness to engage in public jabs.
Family life in Montecito
In Montecito, Harry and Meghan prioritize their children’s privacy. Rare photos of Archie and Lilibet are shared, such as a 2025 image of Harry with the kids, posted by Meghan to support him after a controversial interview. The family marks traditions like July 4, the date of their second meeting in 2016, when Harry gifted Meghan cupcakes.
Their routine blends work and family time, with children’s birthday parties attended by close friends, including Hollywood figures. Meghan has expressed gratitude for their life, emphasizing joy with Harry and their children.
