Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have faced criticism following their first joint public appearance since returning to Britain, with observers noting the event's resemblance to their former royal duties. However, sources indicate the Sussexes believe they are entitled to pursue engagements of their own choosing, potentially conflicting with activities undertaken by senior working royals like William and Kate.
A royal biographer has accused the couple of attempting to become "quasi-royals by stealth." Harry and Meghan stepped back from their working royal status in 2020 and relocated to the United States before returning to Britain in August.
Sources defend Sussexes' independence
A confidant of Harry's told Hello! that the couple feel "they have a right to" pursue "independent lives," which includes public appearances for causes they care about. The source said: "They want to have their independent lives in the way they think they should, and they feel they have a right to, like anybody. I don't think they are going to do things in a different way just because they're back in the UK."
The Nottingham engagement took place just over a month after a firmly worded statement issued on behalf of the King clarified Harry and Meghan's position, describing them as "private citizens with commercial and charitable interests." The message, which reportedly blindsided the couple, added that any activities they pursue "is a personal matter for them both and undertaken in a private capacity."
Comparison to William and Kate
The correspondence reinforced the late Queen Elizabeth's ruling that Harry and Meghan could not operate as "half-in, half-out" working royals. A close source revealed that any backlash over their public appearances "doesn't trouble them." The source added: "They never agreed that they wouldn't be half-in, half-out. That was what was decided and was foisted upon them. They're just living their lives, and they can do it because they're financially independent."
After the Nottingham visit, a spokesperson for the couple told People: "Everyone came away feeling really positive and genuinely thrilled by the love and support they received." During the event, Meghan remarked to well-wishers: "It's great to be back."
Despite a divided response, the Sussexes are expected to continue undertaking royal-style engagements for charitable causes, potentially rivalling William and Kate, who have maintained a united front during their ongoing rift with Harry. Prince William is said to have regarded the Nottingham trip as "distasteful."
