The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have returned to the UK but have remained notably quiet since touching down in Birmingham, having been spotted in public only once since their arrival. Their low-key presence comes as the royal couple face the reality of living in Britain as non-working royals.
On Tuesday, September 7, King Charles issued a public letter clarifying their working status within the Royal Family. The monarch declared that they will continue to live as non-working royals and operate as private citizens, meaning they will not represent the crown at future public appearances.
A call for William to act
The letter has stirred up more questions than it has answered, according to commentary. One suggestion put forward is that Prince William should remove their royal titles for good when he takes the throne, drawing a line in the sand for the couple.
It is noted that the King wants to rebuild his relationship with his son, particularly given his declining health. However, Prince William has stood firm in estranging himself from his younger brother, a stance with which a large proportion of Brits are in agreement.
Privileges and security under scrutiny
Since marrying Meghan, Prince Harry has been accused of bringing shame and slander on the family name through explosive TV interviews and his tell-all memoir, Spare. As the couple settle back into British life, it is argued they will not have the same privileges as working royals in all capacities, including their protection status.
Their cousins, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, manage to fund their own security despite the scandal surrounding their parents. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are urged to follow suit and embrace the quiet life they have been pleading for, accepting the sacrifices that come with it.
A fresh start for the Sussexes
By removing their royal titles and dukedom, Meghan could return to her previous celebrity status, with the media taking much less interest in them. She could fulfil her desire to be a lifestyle guru with a small following online, choose how much to share about her children, or even return to acting.
Stripping the titles would make them public figures and they would lose the respect that comes from being part of the Royal Family. The only people they would be disappointing are their children, who might appreciate a break from the limelight after countless promotional pictures for As Ever.
