Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on Wednesday said in a surprise statement that they intended to step back as senior members of Britain’s royal family.
A response from Buckingham Palace suggested the announcement had caught other family members off guard.
On Instagram, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan, announced that,
“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.”
According to sources, the royal couple did not consult with either the Queen or the Prince of Wales before the announcement. The two have planned to divide their time between Britain and North America.
The statement continued,
“We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties. Until then, please accept our deepest thanks for your continued support.”
On Wednesday evening, a brief two-line statement was issued by Buckingham Palace, suggesting the couple’s announcement had caught the royal family off guard, if not totally blindsided it.
The news of the couple stepping back has left everyone in shock. Here is how people are reacting on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex decision.
