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In a revelation that challenges the widely accepted narrative, a prominent royal biographer suggests that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s departure from royal life was driven less by family discord and more by a desire for personal freedom, ambition, and financial independence.
According to Valentine Low, author of Courtiers, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s 2020 decision to step back from royal duties wasn’t solely motivated by media scrutiny or tensions with the monarchy. Instead, it was a calculated move to escape the constraints of royal protocol and pursue a life where they could freely build their brand, engage with political causes, and most importantly—generate independent wealth.
From Palace Walls to the Heart of Hollywood
Once firmly rooted within the traditions of Buckingham Palace, the couple’s exit marked a dramatic pivot toward celebrity entrepreneurship. After relocating to California, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle quickly established themselves in the media world with multi-million dollar content deals. The most notable of these was their estimated $100 million agreement with Netflix in 2020, which enabled them to tell stories on their own terms—without the oversight of royal advisors.
Meghan, in particular, embraced the entrepreneurial shift. With ventures ranging from a podcast series to the launch of her lifestyle brand, she transitioned from Duchess to digital influencer almost seamlessly. In Courtiers, Low hints that this transformation had long been on the cards. “Some suspected that in the end, she wanted to make money,” he wrote. “And the only way to do that was by leaving the royal life behind.”
Rejected Compromise and a Queen’s Firm Stance
Initially, the Sussexes proposed a “half-in, half-out” arrangement where they would carry out limited royal duties while pursuing personal ventures. However, this hybrid model was firmly rejected by Buckingham Palace. Queen Elizabeth II, known for her unwavering commitment to royal tradition, maintained that no member of the Royal Family could mix monarchy with commercial independence.
This refusal, as per Low’s account, made the couple’s exit inevitable.
Building a Global Brand
The move to the United States opened new doors for Harry and Meghan. Beyond their media ventures, they have become prominent voices in public discourse, often aligning themselves with progressive causes and political figures in the U.S.
Though they have stopped short of officially entering the political arena, their engagements have been carefully observed. Meghan’s close ties with influential figures in the Democratic Party—most notably Valerie Biden Owens, sister of President Joe Biden—have only intensified speculation about a possible political future.
A New Identity: Royal Rebels or Global Entrepreneurs?
While critics argue that Harry and Meghan turned their royal titles into a brand, supporters see their journey as one of self-determination and courage. They’ve crafted a unique identity at the intersection of fame, influence, and activism—without the gilded safety net of the monarchy.
Their post-royal story is not without controversy. From explosive interviews to polarized media coverage, the Sussexes remain a topic of global fascination. But if Valentine Low’s revelations are any indication, the couple’s royal exit wasn’t a retreat—it was a strategic rebranding.
As the world watches their next moves, one thing is certain: Harry and Meghan are no longer just members of the Royal Family—they are entrepreneurs shaping a new legacy on their own terms.
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