Experts Suggest Duchess’s Aspirations Clashed with the Realities of the Monarchy
Meghan Markle’s departure from royal duties in 2020 continues to fuel discussion, with experts suggesting the Duchess of Sussex may have underestimated the unique challenges of life within the monarchy.
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond, speaking to OK!, shared her view that Meghan entered royal life with misaligned expectations. “I’ve always felt Meghan didn’t fully grasp that she’d never be the top dog in the Royal Family—or even the deputy top dog,” Bond explained, noting that Meghan’s ambition and desire for autonomy clashed with royal protocols.
“There’s absolutely nothing wrong with wanting full control over your life or seeking the limelight,” Bond added, “but the Royal Family was the wrong platform for those aspirations.”
Meghan and Prince Harry, who married in May 2018, announced their decision to step back from royal duties less than two years later, in what became widely known as “Megxit.” Since then, the couple has settled in Montecito, California, with their two children, Archie and Lilibet.
Royal commentator Phil Dampier echoed Bond’s sentiments, suggesting Meghan’s departure was premeditated. Speaking to The Sun, he said, “To be honest, I don’t think she ever intended to stay in the Royal Family. She was prepared for a grand wedding, but I think she always planned to leave.”
Dampier added that Meghan’s early departure reflects her struggles with the constraints of royal life, highlighting the stark contrast between her aspirations and the reality of monarchy.
As Meghan and Harry continue their post-royal chapter, these insights underscore the challenges faced by the Duchess in reconciling personal ambition with the demands of royal tradition.
