When Meghan Markle married Prince Harry in May 2018, she brought a fresh perspective and background to the British monarchy. However, her integration into the royal family was not without its challenges. Meghan faced intense scrutiny from the media and public, alongside navigating the rigid protocols and expectations of royal life.
The British tabloids were relentless in their coverage of Meghan Markle, often resorting to negative and sometimes racially charged narratives. This intense media scrutiny created a hostile environment for Meghan, who had to balance her public duties with maintaining personal well-being. Prince Harry, understanding the detrimental effects of such scrutiny, took a proactive stance to protect his wife.
Joining the royal family entails adhering to a multitude of traditions and protocols, which can be overwhelming for anyone, let alone someone from a different cultural background. Meghan’s American roots and her status as a former actress added layers of complexity to her adaptation process. Prince Harry played a crucial role in guiding her through these institutional challenges, ensuring she felt supported and valued within the family structure.
Prince Harry has been vocal about his disdain for the invasive and often malicious media coverage. In several instances, he took legal actions against media outlets to protect Meghan’s privacy and dignity. This included lawsuits over the publication of private letters and defamatory articles. These legal battles underscored Prince Harry’s commitment to shielding his wife from undue harm and setting a precedent for respecting their privacy.
Prince Harry has not shied away from making public statements to address the unfair treatment of Meghan. In October 2019, he released a statement condemning the British tabloid press for their treatment of Meghan, drawing parallels to the media's treatment of his mother, Princess Diana. This advocacy highlighted his dedication to standing by Meghan and challenging the status quo of media interactions with the royal family.
In January 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced their decision to step back from their roles as senior members of the royal family, a move colloquially known as "Megxit." This decision was influenced by a combination of media pressure, institutional constraints, and the desire for a more independent life.
One of the key aspects of their departure was the pursuit of financial independence. By stepping back, they sought to reduce the financial burden on British taxpayers and establish a more autonomous lifestyle. This move also involved negotiating new security arrangements to ensure their safety outside the royal framework.
Post their royal exit, Prince Harry and Meghan established the Archewell Foundation, focusing on charitable endeavors and media ventures. This initiative allows them to continue their public service in a more controlled and impactful manner, reflecting their shared values and commitment to social causes.
The marriage and subsequent actions of Prince Harry and Meghan have had significant implications for the modernization of the British monarchy. Their relationship has highlighted the need for the royal family to adapt to contemporary values, including diversity, mental health awareness, and personal autonomy.
While their departure elicited mixed reactions, it has also garnered support for their stance on mental health and media responsibility. The couple's openness about their struggles has contributed to a broader dialogue on these critical issues, influencing public perception of the royal family in the 21st century.
