Topics: Prince Harry, The Queen, Royal Family, Meghan Markle
Prince Harry went public with a huge announcement before discussing it with the late Queen - a decision he reportedly now regrets.
In 2020, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex shocked the world when they officially announced that they were stepping down from their duties as senior royals.
In a statement posted to their official social media, they said: "After many months of reflection and internal discussions, we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution.
"We intend to step back as 'senior' members of the Royal Family, and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen."
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Following their statement, the Queen also released her own, which said: "Today my family had very constructive discussions on the future of my grandson and his family.
"My family and I are entirely supportive of Harry and Meghan's desire to create a new life as a young family. Although we would have preferred them to remain full-time working Members of the Royal Family, we respect and understand their wish to live a more independent life as a family while remaining a valued part of my family."
She also said there would be a 'period of transition' for Prince Harry and Meghan as they depart from their roles, with a one-year probational period where the royal family would re-discuss the agreement, PEOPLE reported.
The couple moved from the UK to California where they have remained with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
However, it seems their sudden announcement took the Queen by complete surprise as her grandson had reportedly not discussed the plan with her prior to the public post.
And according to the Telegraph in 2020, Harry felt remorse for not going to his grandmother about the departure, with a source claiming at the time: "I don't think he fully appreciated the impact the statement would have in terms of them not consulting the Queen. He regrets that."
In another statement in 2021 from Buckingham Palace, it was confirmed that the couple wouldn't be returning as senior royals.
It said: "The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have confirmed to Her Majesty The Queen that they will not be returning as working members of The Royal Family.
"Following conversations with The Duke, The Queen has written confirming that in stepping away from the work of The Royal Family it is not possible to continue with the responsibilities and duties that come with a life of public service. The honorary military appointments and Royal patronages held by The Duke and Duchess will therefore be returned to Her Majesty, before being redistributed among working members of The Royal Family.
"While all are saddened by their decision, The Duke and Duchess remain much loved members of the family."
