Early Signs of Strain

The relationship between Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan with the Royal Family experienced tension well before their move to the United States in 2020. These early issues, as reported by royal sources, began during the planning stages of their 2018 wedding.

The couple reportedly felt overlooked and ignored during the wedding preparations, which contributed to increasing strain within the royal household, particularly with Prince William and Princess Kate.

Seeking Independence

In response to the tense conditions, Harry and Meghan sought to distance themselves from Kensington Palace. In 2019, Queen Elizabeth II agreed to a separate household for the couple, based at Buckingham Palace. This move coincided with their relocation from Nottingham Cottage to Frogmore Cottage, which underwent £2.4 million in renovations funded by taxpayers.

Harry and Meghan later repaid the funds following their withdrawal from royal duties, a decision that sparked considerable public discussion.

A Growing Crisis

“Although the separation of the two households seemed a logical step behind the scenes – Harry and William were now married and well into their 30s – it was the first public sign of a crisis that threatened to engulf the entire institution.”

Russell Myers, via reporting in the Mirror

The move to separate households was described as the first public sign of a crisis that threatened the stability of the monarchy.