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Last week, King Charles sent a clear message to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle by publicly affirming their status as non-working royals-without consulting the couple beforehand, according to royal commentators.
The letter, issued on the King’s behalf by the Lord Chamberlain, reiterated that Harry and Meghan would not use their “His and Her Royal Highness” titles and would continue as private citizens after their move from California back to the UK this August with their children, Archie and Lilibet.
A spokesperson for the Sussexes told the BBC they were “a little surprised” to learn about the letter only after its release to the press. The couple reportedly responded with questions within an hour of receiving the correspondence, only to be informed that the statement had already been made public.
Broadcaster and photographer Helena Chard weighed in, telling Fox News Digital that there was “no discussion required.” She described King Charles’s stance as decisive, emphasizing that the monarch was drawing a firm line. “Prince Harry may be the king’s son, but he lacks power to amend and dictate the monarch’s statement,” Chard noted.
The letter made it clear that any activities Harry and Meghan undertake must be conducted strictly in a private capacity, with no official representation of the Royal Family. Chard added that the monarchy “can only have one voice,” which belongs to King Charles, Queen Camilla, and the Prince and Princess of Wales-Prince William and Catherine-who are the future king and queen and officially speak for the crown.
Palace insiders revealed the letter was sent not only to the Sussexes’ team but also to government departments, military officials, and Lord Lieutenants. Since their return to the UK, the couple is believed to be living in a non-royal residence outside London, after spending nearly six years in the United States following their 2020 departure from royal duties.