Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, has experienced one of the most publicized journeys of any modern royal. From her career as a successful actress to her marriage into the British Royal Family and eventual transition away from senior royal duties, her life has been a constant subject of global media attention.

Her decision with Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, to step back from official royal responsibilities in January 2020 marked a turning point in the modern history of the monarchy. It also sparked reactions from the public, the media, and members of her family — including her father, Thomas Markle.

Meghan Markle’s Career and Early Public Life

Before joining the Royal Family, Meghan Markle built a career in entertainment. She is best known for her role as Rachel Zane in the legal drama Suits, in which she appeared for seven seasons.

Her professional background extended beyond acting. She worked in fashion, calligraphy, and lifestyle blogging, establishing herself as a versatile creative figure. Her philanthropic work before marriage included advocacy for gender equality and humanitarian causes, notably with the United Nations Women’s political participation program and World Vision Canada.

Engagement and Transition into Royal Life

In November 2017, Clarence House announced the engagement of Meghan Markle to Prince Harry. The couple married on May 19, 2018, at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle.

Upon joining the Royal Family, Meghan became the Duchess of Sussex. She undertook official engagements alongside Harry and individually, supporting initiatives in mental health, youth empowerment, and gender equality.

She retired from acting to focus on royal duties, a decision confirmed in public statements and interviews at the time.

Stepping Back from Senior Royal Duties

On January 8, 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex issued a statement via their official Instagram account, announcing their intention to step back as “senior” members of the Royal Family.

Their statement read that they planned to:

• Work to become financially independent
• Continue to support Queen Elizabeth II
• Divide their time between the United Kingdom and North America

Later that month, Buckingham Palace released a formal statement confirming that the couple would no longer use their “HRH” titles and would no longer receive public funds for royal duties.

They also agreed to repay £2.4 million (approximately $3 million USD) spent from the Sovereign Grant on the refurbishment of Frogmore Cottage, their UK residence, which would remain available for their use.

Frogmore Cottage and the Sovereign Grant

Frogmore Cottage, located on the grounds of Windsor Castle, had previously been divided into five separate residences. Renovations were carried out in 2019 to combine them into a single-family home for the Duke and Duchess.

The Royal Household’s annual financial report, released in June 2019, confirmed the renovation costs and stated that the works were funded through the Sovereign Grant.

Following their decision to step back from royal duties, the couple reimbursed the full cost of the renovations, as confirmed by official palace communications in September 2020.

Thomas Markle’s Public Comments

Thomas Markle, Meghan’s father, has been estranged from her since 2018. He has spoken publicly on multiple occasions about their relationship and her life decisions.

In 2020, Thomas appeared in a Channel 5 documentary titled “Thomas Markle: My Story”, where he expressed his disappointment with Meghan and Harry’s decision to step back from senior royal life.

He voiced his personal opinion that his daughter had been given an extraordinary opportunity and suggested she should have remained in her royal role. His remarks included criticisms of their choice to live in North America and pursue independent financial ventures.

It is important to note that Thomas Markle’s views are his own and do not represent any official position of the Royal Family. Buckingham Palace has not issued statements responding to his personal commentary.

Estrangement and Media Attention

The relationship between Meghan and her father became strained ahead of her wedding to Prince Harry in 2018. Thomas Markle did not attend the wedding, citing health issues.

Media reports at the time documented staged paparazzi photographs involving Thomas and subsequent interviews he gave to outlets worldwide. Meghan and Harry addressed the situation in interviews, including their 2021 conversation with Oprah Winfrey, expressing their sadness over the breakdown of the relationship.

The Sussexes’ Life After Stepping Back

Since relocating to the United States, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have launched several initiatives. Their non-profit organization, Archewell, focuses on community service, mental health, and digital well-being.

They have also engaged in commercial projects, including:

• Producing documentaries and series through a deal with Netflix
• Hosting podcasts under a partnership with Spotify (which concluded in 2023)
• Publishing books, including Prince Harry’s memoir Spare (2023)

These ventures are part of their strategy to remain financially independent while supporting philanthropic causes.

Public Opinion and Media Coverage

Public reaction to Meghan and Harry’s decision has been divided. Some view their move as a step toward personal freedom and a healthier work-life balance, while others see it as a departure from royal tradition.

Media coverage has often amplified differing opinions, and commentary from family members — including Thomas Markle — has kept the topic in headlines.

The Broader Impact on the Monarchy

The departure of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as working royals marked a significant change in the composition of the monarchy’s public-facing team. With fewer senior royals available for official duties, other members — including the Prince and Princess of Wales and the Princess Royal — have taken on expanded roles.

Royal historians note that the monarchy has adapted to changes over centuries, and the Sussexes’ decision reflects broader conversations about modernizing royal responsibilities and balancing personal autonomy with institutional tradition.

Conclusion

Meghan Markle’s journey from Hollywood actress to Duchess of Sussex — and eventually to an independent public figure in the United States — remains one of the most discussed royal stories in recent memory.

Her father’s public remarks following her departure from royal duties highlight the personal complexities behind public life. While his opinions have attracted media attention, Meghan and Prince Harry have focused on building a new chapter centered on their charitable work and professional projects.

As with many moments in royal history, perspectives on their choices will vary, but their impact on the public conversation about tradition, independence, and the role of the modern monarchy is undeniable.

Verified Sources:

• Royal.uk – The Duke and Duchess of Sussex
• BBC News – Harry and Meghan to step back as senior royals
• The Royal Household – Sovereign Grant Report 2018–2019
• Channel 5 – Thomas Markle: My Story
• Archewell Foundation