Five years ago, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry made a decision that changed the history of the British monarchy. They stepped away from their royal duties, a fact that sparked great controversy. Now, a royal biographer offers a new perspective on that moment.
According to Andrew Morton, the photo of Prince George alongside other members of the royal family was a key trigger. From that photo, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex made that decision.
The image in question was published by the Royal Household shortly before Meghan and Harry announced their withdrawal. It features George, Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles III, and Prince William in the Throne Room of Buckingham Palace. For Morton, this photograph symbolized that the future of the crown was secured, with or without them.
Harry and Meghan start to see things clearly
The biographer recounts that the couple began to suspect that the institution was against them. They perceived that their role within the family was in jeopardy. "The tacit code was simple: the future of the monarchy was sealed without needing to include Meghan and Harry," Morton states.
This revelation puts years of tensions within the royal family into context. According to Morton, those differences did not arise overnight. The idea of leaving palace life behind had been developing over time.
On the podcast Pod Save the King, Morton says that Harry had already spoken with Oprah Winfrey in November 2018. It was just six months after marrying Meghan, about the possibility of a different future. This indicates that their decision was not impulsive, but rather considered and planned.
After leaving the United Kingdom, Meghan, Harry, and their son Archie settled in Canada and later in California. Their daughter Lilibet was born there. During this time, the former Duke and Duchess have spoken openly about their reasons and the life they left behind.
However, this new version from the biographer provides a different approach. Morton suggests that George's photo was more significant than Harry's presence. That image represented the inevitable path the monarchy would take.
The impact of this information is remarkable. It reveals a complex internal dynamic and shows how small details can trigger momentous decisions. The photo was a clear signal to Meghan and Harry that they would not be part of the crown's future.
For many, this interpretation changes the way the split is understood. It was not just a matter of disagreements, but a struggle for a place within the institution. Prince George's presence in the image symbolized a future in which they had no place.
This account also shows the pressure that young members of royalty face. The weight of tradition and expectations can be overwhelming. Meghan and Harry chose a different path, seeking freedom far from that environment.
Andrew Morton, with his book Meghan: A Hollywood Princess, sheds light on the complexity of the case. His work opens a window into the private world of a public family, helping to better understand their decisions.
The story of Meghan and Harry continues to generate interest. Their departure remains a topic of debate in media and among the public. This new detail about George's photo adds another piece to that puzzle.