The Final Decision and Its Implications

With the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and the accession of King Charles III, the status and roles of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been a subject of considerable discussion and speculation. The couple's decision to step back from royal duties and relocate to the United States has significantly shifted their standing within the royal family. Yet, it is important to separate fact from fiction regarding any recent decisions made by King Charles III.

No Formal Decision by King Charles III

King Charles III has not made any official decisions regarding the future of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. According to reports, Queen Elizabeth II had accepted Harry and Meghan's request to leave the royal family in 2021. She allowed them a year to settle into their new life and evaluate whether it suited them. Meghan mentioned in an interview that King Charles III still honors the decision made by Queen Elizabeth II, stating, 'the king is still respecting what we had decided.'

Outsiders' Speculations

Some speculate that further measures will be taken against Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, but these are baseless rumors. Many individuals have taken to the internet to voice their opinions, some wanting to see Harry face consequences for leaving the royal family. However, it is more logical to consider the wellbeing of the family as a whole and ensure that Prince Harry's status remains consistent with his decision to step back.

The Original Agreement

Prince Harry presented five options for his future role within the royal family to Queen Elizabeth II, known as the Sandringham conference. His top choice was to spend six months in the U.K. and six months in the U.S. acting as a consultant. After evaluating Harry's suggestions, Queen Elizabeth II found the half-and-half approach nonviable. She required Harry to either fully commit to his royal duties or become a non-active royal with no assignments. Prince Harry chose to resign from his royal duties and was given one year to adjust to his new life. When he decided not to return, several consequences followed, as detailed in numerous media reports.

Current Status and Future Prospects

Upon the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles became the new monarch. In his first public address, he outlined various changes, including the advancement of Prince William to Prince of Wales. Prince Harry's name was not included in any new honors, but he was still wished well in his life abroad. This statement indicated that King Charles III would respect Harry's decision not to return to his royal responsibilities.

Harry and Meghan's choice to live in California and remove themselves from royal duties has resulted in them no longer being considered working royals. They have no official royal status and cannot be involved in any royal functions. However, they remain part of the royal family by birth and retain their titles of Prince and Duchess, but they are not expected to perform any royal duties.

As King Charles III rules, his predecessors' decisions and this respect for Harry's personal choice remain in effect. Harry's desire to live away from the monarchy without committing to royal duties has not changed. He is a member of the royal family but has chosen a different path.