Former Royal Staffer and Vanity Fair Exposé Raise Questions About Sussexes’ Future
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s life outside the royal family is once again under intense scrutiny following the publication of a damning article detailing their post-royal ambitions.
Since stepping down from royal duties five years ago, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have carved out a high-profile existence in Montecito, California, largely severing ties with the monarchy. Insiders claim that the divide between Harry and his royal relatives is now so deep that reconciliation appears unlikely.
Former royal butler Paul Burrell has weighed in on the controversy, arguing that Harry has lost sight of the values instilled in him by his late mother, Princess Diana.
"Harry and Meghan enjoy an extremely privileged life, one that Harry has always known and Meghan has long desired," Burrell stated.
"Diana taught Harry long ago that the price for a privileged lifestyle is public service. Now, he lives a celebrity Hollywood lifestyle that is completely different from his royal one."
Burrell, who served as Diana’s butler from 1987 until her passing in 1997, also addressed the fallout from Vanity Fair’s scathing 8,000-word article, American Hustle, which scrutinizes the Sussexes’ business strategies and personal conduct.
The report claims that a member of Meghan’s team discreetly approached a publishing house about a potential post-divorce memoir, while also raising concerns from the couple’s Montecito neighbors and former staff members.
Burrell acknowledged the severity of the claims, stating, “Vanity Fair is a prestigious title, so printing such a damning article sets a precedent. They are listening to people in the know, not speculating.”
He further asserted, “I take this article as pretty factual. I’ve never met Meghan myself, but how can so many other people be wrong? I know from firsthand experience how difficult Harry can be—how petulant and spoiled he is. He’s always lived in a bubble.”
Despite being reportedly “distressed” by the claims, Harry and Meghan have denied the allegations. Experts suggest the couple is wise to remain silent for now, as responding could further escalate the controversy surrounding their post-royal brand.
