Prince Harry’s Candid Confession: Why Stepping Back from Royal Life Was a Father’s Unwavering Duty
In a revealing and intimate conversation with his friend, television host James Corden, Prince Harry candidly shared the profound reasons behind his and wife Meghan Markle’s monumental decision to “step back” from their roles as senior members of the British Royal Family. The Duke of Sussex, 36, offered a rare glimpse into the pressures that led to this pivotal moment, asserting that his actions were simply “what any father or any husband would do” when faced with immense challenges. This pivotal interview, conducted in a relaxed, carpool-karaoke style setting during a February 25 appearance on The Late Late Show with James Corden, provided significant insight into the Sussexes’ transition to a new life in California.
Harry clarified that their departure was never about abandoning their responsibilities entirely, but rather a strategic repositioning. “It was never walking away — it was stepping back instead of stepping down,” he explained to Corden. He painted a vivid picture of the environment they found themselves in, describing it as “a really difficult environment as a lot of people saw.” At the heart of his discontent was the relentless and often intrusive scrutiny from the British press. “We all know what the British press can be like. It was destroying my mental health. It was toxic,” he asserted, referencing the couple’s groundbreaking decision in 2020 to forge a new path independent of traditional royal duties.
This “stepping back,” often colloquially referred to as “Megxit,” sent shockwaves through the monarchy and garnered global headlines. It was a move unprecedented in modern royal history, driven by a desire for greater autonomy and, crucially, protection from the media storm that had persistently overshadowed their lives. Prince Harry’s concerns about the press echo the tragic experiences of his late mother, Princess Diana, whose life was similarly hounded by paparazzi and tabloids. This familial history undoubtedly amplified Harry’s determination to shield his own family from similar fates, viewing the toxic media landscape as a direct threat to their well-being and stability.
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As a direct consequence of their decision, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, along with their then 1-year-old son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, relocated from the United Kingdom to Montecito, California. This move symbolized a definitive break from the constant public scrutiny and afforded them the space to raise their family in a more private and nurturing environment. Harry emphasized that this geographical shift was intrinsically linked to his fundamental duty as a family man. “I did what any father or any husband would do,” he reiterated, underlining the protective instinct that drove their actions. He also made it clear that while their roles had changed, his commitment to service remained. “We never walked away…I will always be contributing but my life is public service,” he affirmed, indicating a continued dedication to charitable work and advocacy through their Archewell Foundation.
In a surprising turn during the interview, Prince Harry drew parallels between his family’s experiences with the media and Netflix’s critically acclaimed fictional series, The Crown. This dramatized portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II’s historic reign offers a fictionalized look at royal life, which Harry noted, “They don’t pretend to be news, it’s fictional. But it’s loosely based on the truth.” He elaborated on his unexpected preference for the series over actual tabloid reports about his family. “Of course it’s is not strictly accurate…I’m way more comfortable with The Crown then reading stories about my family and my wife or myself. That is obviously fiction, take it how you will — but [other stories] are being reported on as fact. I have a real issue with that,” he explained.
This statement highlights a crucial distinction for Harry: the entertainment value of a historical drama, even one that takes creative liberties, is preferable to sensationalized, often fabricated, news presented as undisputed fact. The recent seasons of The Crown, which delved into the tumultuous marriage of Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana, brilliantly portrayed by Emma Corrin, likely resonated deeply with Harry. Seeing his mother’s story, even in a dramatized format, appeared less egregious to him than the continuous misrepresentation and intrusion from the very press he sought to escape.
Despite the physical distance, Prince Harry confirmed that he maintains regular contact with his family in the UK. He revealed that he keeps in touch with his grandparents, Queen Elizabeth II, 94, and Prince Philip, 99, through video calls, specifically mentioning Zoom. This demonstrates that while their professional roles have changed, personal familial bonds remain intact. In a testament to these ongoing relationships, Queen Elizabeth recently issued a public statement congratulating Harry and Meghan on their joyous announcement of a second pregnancy, which they shared with the world earlier that month. The statement, released by Buckingham Palace, warmly read, “Her Majesty, The Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales and the entire family are delighted and wish them well,” underscoring the family’s shared happiness for the expanding Sussex household.
The announcement of their second child was accompanied by a stunning black-and-white photograph that captured the couple beaming with happiness. In the serene image, Meghan Markle, the former Suits star, proudly cradled her growing baby bump, while she and Harry appeared utterly carefree and relaxed, seated beneath a tree. The visual narrative of the photo perfectly complemented their heartfelt statement: “We can confirm that Archie is going to be a big brother,” the couple shared, radiating palpable excitement. They further confirmed their joyous news by adding, “The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are overjoyed to be expecting their second child.” This moment represented not just personal happiness for Harry and Meghan but also a new chapter for their young family, one they are building with intention and privacy in their new Californian home, free from the intense scrutiny they once endured.
Their journey, marked by both challenge and triumph, reflects a deep commitment to family welfare and mental health, values that Prince Harry continually champions. His decision to prioritize his wife and children above traditional royal expectations has not only redefined his own path but has also sparked broader conversations about the pressures faced by public figures and the crucial importance of personal well-being. By stepping back, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have carved out a life where they can continue to serve causes they believe in, all while ensuring their children, Archie and their forthcoming daughter, grow up with a greater sense of normalcy and protection than Harry himself experienced.