The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have permanently stepped down as working royals, severing their last official links with the monarchy. The decision, which comes a year after they announced their intention to become financially independent, was widely anticipated given the couple's strained relationship with the UK press and royal family.
During the transition period, Harry and Meghan secured lucrative deals with Netflix and Spotify, and are set for a high-profile interview with Oprah Winfrey. Their focus has shifted to the US, where they live in a £11m mansion in Montecito, California, with their son Archie and expecting a second child.
The couple's initial hope for a 'half in, half out' arrangement was rejected by Buckingham Palace, which insisted they give up the Sussex Royal brand and repay public funds for renovations to Frogmore Cottage. Harry expressed 'great sadness' at the outcome, but said there was 'no other option' given the treatment by the UK media.
While Harry remains royal by blood, all working ties are now severed. The couple's future lies on the world stage, with a focus on their Archewell brand and charitable work, particularly in Africa and the US.
