Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s 2020 “step back” statement is circulating again, as scrutiny over royal titles intensifies. The Sussexes drew fresh attention after a recent clip showed Meghan working beside a blue notebook embossed with her royal cypher.
Consequently, the discussion has turned to how the couple framed their post-royal status. Though they left frontline duties in March 2020, their website statement and subsequent deals have remained a lightning rod.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s royal exit statement resurfaces amid Prince Andrew controversy
In November, King Charles removed former Prince Andrew’s royal titles and palace guidance says he is now Andrew Mountbatten Windsor. Thus, scrutiny of titles has spiked, resurfacing Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s 2020 exit statement.
Daily Mail’s recap highlights language that critics say still rankles. In the 1,114-word post, the couple asserted there was no “jurisdiction” overseas over the word “Royal.” The statement also noted, “While there is precedent for other titled members of the Royal Family,” and added, “A 12-month review period has been put in place.”
It continued, “Per the agreement, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex understand that they are required to step back.” The long message was widely parsed against rules governing style, titles, and commercial activity.
Royal author Tom Bower argued the wording signaled confrontation. As he put it, “Their statement was read by the world as intended.” He called it “A deliberate challenge to the Royal Family.” Separately, commentators said palace guidance remained firm: “half-in, half-out was not possible.” The framing also spurred debate over comparisons to other titled relatives, with some reading a veiled reference to “minor royals.”
Analysts focused on tone and substance. Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams said, “It is completely unnecessary to add that,” referring to passages viewed as needlessly pointed toward the institution. Moreover, sources at the time stressed continuity alongside limits, saying the pair were “still much-loved members of her family,” even as operational duties ceased.
Contextually, the renewed spotlight arrives amid broader conversations about how titles are styled and used beyond official work. However, the present focus remains on that 2020 text and the rules it invoked.
Originally reported by Santanu Das on Reality Tea
