Five years have passed since Meghan Markle and Prince Harry stepped back from their royal duties, a decision that sent shockwaves through the world. Their journey has been a rollercoaster of triumphs and tribulations, navigating both personal joys and public scrutiny. This article examines the significant highs and lows of their lives since that pivotal moment in January 2020.
Welcoming Lilibet Diana: A Joyful Arrival
The birth of Lilibet “Lili” Diana Mountbatten-Windsor in June 2021 marked an undeniable high for the couple. The arrival of their daughter, named after Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana, brought immense joy to the family.
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The royal family, including Prince William and Kate Middleton, extended their congratulations. The Queen’s approval for the use of her childhood nickname, Lilibet, underscored a moment of familial harmony. Lilibet’s birth solidified Harry’s embrace of fatherhood, a role he openly cherishes.
The Heartbreak of Miscarriage: A Devastating Loss
Before Lilibet’s birth, Meghan endured the profound grief of a miscarriage. In a deeply personal essay, she shared the devastating experience of losing her second child.
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Harry later attributed the miscarriage to the intense stress Meghan faced due to legal battles with a British tabloid. The couple’s openness about this painful chapter resonated with many who have experienced similar loss.
Forging a New Path: Business Successes and Challenges
Leaving the royal fold necessitated financial independence. Harry and Meghan secured lucrative deals with Netflix, Spotify, and Penguin Random House. These ventures allowed them to pursue creative projects and share their stories on their own terms.
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However, their entrepreneurial journey has encountered setbacks. The cancellation of Meghan’s animated series, Pearl, and the termination of their Spotify deal highlight the challenges of navigating the entertainment industry. Despite these hurdles, they continue to develop new projects and explore diverse platforms.
Finding Their Voices: Telling Their Story
One of the driving forces behind their royal exit was the desire to control their own narrative. Meghan felt silenced within the institution, and both she and Harry sought the freedom to express themselves authentically. The Oprah interview, Harry’s memoir Spare, and the Netflix docuseries provided platforms for them to share their experiences.
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Meghan’s return to Instagram in 2025 symbolized her reclaimed voice and autonomy. They have embraced opportunities to share their perspectives and advocate for causes they believe in.
Mourning Royal Family Members: Navigating Grief and Tension
The deaths of Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth II brought profound sadness and further strained Harry’s relationship with his family. His return for Prince Philip’s funeral was marked by difficult conversations and a lack of resolution.
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While the couple participated in mourning events for the Queen, tensions with William and Charles persisted. The ongoing disputes over security and Harry’s desire for accountability continue to cast a shadow over their familial ties.
The Invictus Games: A Decade of Service
The Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry, celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2024. This international sporting event for wounded service members and veterans represents a significant achievement for Harry.
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The Games have provided a platform for Harry to champion a cause close to his heart and demonstrate his commitment to service. The couple’s involvement in the Games has been a consistent source of positive public engagement. However, the absence of royal family members at the 10th anniversary event highlighted the ongoing rift.
Loss of Frogmore Cottage: Uprooted from Royal Life
The eviction from Frogmore Cottage, their U.K. residence gifted by the Queen, symbolized a definitive break from royal life. While the couple accepted the decision, it underscored the finality of their departure and the ongoing challenges in their relationship with the royal family.
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Harry’s attendance at King Charles’s coronation without Meghan further highlighted the complexities of their relationship with the institution.
Individual Paths: Evolving Professional Dynamics
As they navigate their post-royal lives, Harry and Meghan are increasingly pursuing individual professional endeavors. Harry focuses on philanthropic work and his role at BetterUp, while Meghan explores entrepreneurial ventures, including her podcast, lifestyle brand, and investments.
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This “twin-track” approach reflects their evolving personal and professional goals. While they continue to collaborate on shared causes, their individual projects allow them to pursue their passions and leverage their unique talents.
Battling Divorce Rumors and Online Trolls: The Price of Fame
The constant barrage of divorce rumors and online negativity represents a persistent low point for the couple. Harry openly addressed the relentless speculation, expressing sympathy for the trolls who fuel the negativity.
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Their experience highlights the challenges of living in the public eye and the toll of online harassment. Despite the negativity, Harry expressed contentment with his life in the U.S., believing it aligns with the life his mother, Princess Diana, envisioned for him.
The past five years have been a transformative period for Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. Their journey reflects a complex interplay of personal triumphs, professional endeavors, and ongoing challenges in navigating their relationship with the royal family and the relentless scrutiny of the public eye.
