The News
Prince Harry’s Royal Role Diminishes After Frogmore Cottage Eviction
In a significant shift within the British royal family, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have officially vacated Frogmore Cottage, their former residence in the UK.
This week, the couple handed over the keys to King Charles, marking the end of an era for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
The cottage, once a cherished home gifted by Queen Elizabeth II for their wedding in 2018, now stands empty as the couple embarks on a new chapter across the Atlantic.
The eviction from Frogmore Cottage carries profound implications for Prince Harry, stripping him of a vital role within the royal family.
Without a UK residence, he can no longer serve as a state councillor, a position that would have allowed him to step in during the king's incapacity.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams highlighted the gravity of this situation, noting that Harry's right to act in this capacity has been effectively forfeited.
Fitzwilliams elaborated on the significance of losing their UK home, stating, “It's a huge deal.” He emphasized that while Harry may not be a working royal anymore, his previous status granted him certain privileges that are now out of reach.
The implications extend beyond just the loss of a residence; it suggests a growing distance between Harry and the royal family, particularly as his brother, William, prepares for future responsibilities.
Interestingly, Fitzwilliams pointed out that Harry and Meghan appear to have little interest in maintaining ties with the UK.
Their focus seems to lie primarily with their audience in the United States, rather than attempting to regain popularity or influence back home.
As William ascends to the throne, the lack of a UK residence could further strain familial connections, leaving Harry without support from his brother.
The couple's departure from Frogmore Cottage comes after years of minimal occupancy.
Since stepping back from royal duties, Harry and Meghan have spent little time in the five-bedroom home.
Initially given only a few weeks to vacate, negotiations extended their timeline until after King Charles' coronation, allowing them a brief reprieve.
As they navigate this transition, Harry and Meghan are also reeling from recent setbacks in their media ventures.
Earlier this month, they were dropped by Spotify, which adds to the pressure of establishing their brand outside the royal sphere.
In a bid to reinvent themselves, the couple is developing a new show inspired by Charles Dickens' classic, Great Expectations.
This upcoming project reportedly centers on a feminist retelling of the character Miss Havisham, as detailed by the Wall Street Journal.