Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to quit The Firm shocked everyone, including Queen Elizabeth. But in a statement, the monarch says that she understands and accepts the couple's decision.
At the time, the queen didn’t completely close her doors to Prince Harry and Markle possibly returning to their royal duties. She said that she would be reviewing the matter one year later. In the end, the queen finalized Prince Harry and Markle’s decision to no longer work for the British monarchy.
ALSO READ: Prince Charles Shock: Timing Of Heir’s ‘Emotional’ Meeting With Lilibet Diana Reportedly In Question
Queen Elizabeth Would’ve Supported Prince Harry, And Meghan Markle’s Decision To Take A Break From Their Duties
During a recent discussion, royal biographer Andrew Morton said that Queen Elizabeth would’ve been open to working out an arrangement with Prince Harry and Markle. Unfortunately, the couple was dead set on staying in the United States and pursuing their deals with different companies.
Morton pointed out that the queen also took a break from her royal duties in the 1940s, shortly after she tied the knot with Prince Philip.
“Back in the late 1940s after they married, the queen and Prince Philip lived in Malta for a while as he was pursuing his career in the Royal Navy. Many thought he would end up as First Lord of the Admiralty as he was such a star. They never thought for a minute that George VI would die so soon and thought that they would have 20 years or so on the fringes of the royal family,” Morton said (via Cheat Sheet).
The royal biographer also said that Her Majesty has always been understanding of those that want to take a brief break from their royal duties. After all, she knows that spending quality time with their family is equally important.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Princess Diana Heartbreak: Princess Of Wales Wanted To Be With Prince Charles Even After They Were Forced To Divorce, Royal Expert Claims
Prince Harry, Meghan Markle Could’ve Relocated To New Zealand
If Prince Harry and Markle didn’t quit their royal duties, they could’ve relocated to New Zealand and started a new life there. And when they are ready, they could return to the royal fold.
“They were thinking about living in New Zealand and they even spoke to the Prime Minister of New Zealand about this – so they had all kinds of plots and thoughts for their future,” he said.
The country’s governor-general reportedly had a conversation with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex about moving to New Zealand following their 2018 visit.
“When we sat down and had a drink, they said that they could imagine living in a place like this and wondered whether we thought it would be theoretically possible. Of course, we said, 'Sure. It would be fine' — there are lots of opportunities to live in New Zealand, but that would be something that they'd have to explore,” Dame Patsy Reddy said (via Marie Claire).
Reddy also said that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex seemingly loved the access to the outdoors in New Zealand. They also had a blast interacting with the locals there. However, Prince Harry and Markle didn’t pursue their plans to relocate there.
In the end, the couple relocated to the United States, where they currently reside. And they received the blessing of Queen Elizabeth but were still heavily criticized by the public for their decision.
Check back for more stories and updates about Queen Elizabeth, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle here at EpicStream!
Explore new topics and discover content that's right for you!
Pop Culture