On May 19, 2018, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were married at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle. Their wedding was broadcast worldwide and watched by millions, marking one of the most memorable royal events of the decade. The ceremony was attended by members of the British royal family, international dignitaries, and prominent figures from different sectors, reflecting both tradition and a modern approach.
Six years later, much has changed for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. After stepping back from their roles as senior members of the British royal family in 2020, they have built a new life in the United States with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Their journey has been marked by significant milestones, new ventures, and ongoing public attention.
This article explores the timeline of their transition, the impact of their departure from royal duties, and how they have established new roles outside the United Kingdom. All information provided is based on publicly available records, reputable news outlets, and official statements.
The Royal Wedding: A Global Celebration
The wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle was celebrated across the globe. According to the BBC, the event was watched live by more than 29 million viewers in the United States and millions more worldwide.
The ceremony highlighted both tradition and diversity. It included classical elements associated with royal weddings, as well as cultural touches such as a gospel choir and a sermon by Bishop Michael Curry, which drew widespread praise. Meghan arrived with her mother, Doria Ragland, while Prince Charles walked her down part of the aisle, symbolizing unity within the family.
The guest list included members of the royal family, representatives of the Commonwealth, charity leaders, and public figures from entertainment and media. Both the wedding ceremony and the carriage procession through Windsor reflected a combination of historical pageantry and modern inclusivity.
Transitioning From Royal Life
In January 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan announced their decision to step back as senior members of the royal family. The announcement, published on their official website and Instagram account, stated their desire to split their time between the United Kingdom and North America, while working toward financial independence.
Following discussions with Queen Elizabeth II and other senior royals, it was agreed that they would no longer use their “His/Her Royal Highness” titles in an official capacity and would not receive public funds for royal duties. The arrangement came into effect in the spring of 2020, according to Buckingham Palace’s official statement.
The move was widely reported in international media, including outlets such as the BBC, CNN, and Reuters. Their decision became known informally as “Megxit,” a term that drew both support and criticism from commentators.
Life in the United States
Since relocating, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have settled in California. According to coverage by the Associated Press and other verified sources, they purchased a home in Montecito, Santa Barbara County, in 2020. The community is known for its privacy and has become their base for family life and professional ventures.
The couple has emphasized charitable work and media projects. In 2020, they founded Archewell, a nonprofit organization focused on humanitarian initiatives, community service, and creative media projects. The foundation’s website outlines its mission to “uplift and unite communities” through compassion and service.
Their work also includes media partnerships. In 2020, they signed multi-year deals with Netflix and Spotify, aiming to produce documentaries, scripted series, and podcasts. The Netflix documentary series Harry & Meghan, released in 2022, provided their personal perspective on their relationship, royal life, and transition to the United States.
Family Life and Parenthood
Prince Harry and Meghan are parents to two children. Their son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, was born in May 2019, and their daughter, Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, was born in June 2021.
Both children hold titles as Prince and Princess, consistent with rules outlined by King George V in 1917, which grant royal titles to the grandchildren of the sovereign. Their daughter’s name honors Queen Elizabeth II, whose family nickname was “Lilibet,” and Princess Diana, Prince Harry’s late mother.
Public appearances of Archie and Lilibet remain limited, as the couple has consistently emphasized privacy and security for their children.
Continued Global Engagement
Even after stepping back from royal duties, Harry and Meghan have continued public engagements. In 2023, they visited Nigeria for charitable initiatives, where they focused on youth empowerment and community projects. While the trip was private, it drew significant media attention for its similarities to traditional royal tours.
Prince Harry has also remained closely connected to the Invictus Games, an international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans that he founded in 2014. The games continue to be a cornerstone of his charitable work, with editions held in countries such as Germany and the Netherlands in recent years.
Meghan has pursued individual projects as well, including the launch of her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, in 2024. The initiative emphasizes cooking, home living, and family-oriented products.
Public Perception and Media Coverage
Public opinion regarding the couple varies across regions. According to polling by YouGov in 2023, Prince Harry and Meghan received lower favorability ratings in the United Kingdom compared to earlier years, though they remain more popular in the United States.
Their media coverage has been extensive and often polarized. On one hand, they have been praised for raising discussions about mental health, diversity, and personal independence. On the other, they have faced criticism for public statements about the royal family and for commercial partnerships that some commentators view as inconsistent with royal tradition.
Legacy and Future Outlook
As of their sixth wedding anniversary in 2024, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have firmly established independent lives. Their story reflects a transition from traditional royal duties to private ventures and global advocacy.
Their legacy is still developing, but their influence is undeniable. Through Archewell, their media work, and continued focus on philanthropy, they have built a platform that resonates with audiences around the world.
Whether they will reconcile more fully with the British royal family remains unknown, but their lives in the United States continue to evolve with new projects and opportunities.
Conclusion
The journey of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle since their wedding has been marked by significant change. From one of the most widely celebrated royal weddings in history to a life focused on independence, advocacy, and family in California, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex continue to attract global attention.
Their experiences highlight the challenges of balancing tradition with personal choice, as well as the opportunities that come with redefining roles in public life. Six years on, their path illustrates both the enduring appeal of the monarchy and the changing ways in which royal figures engage with the modern world.