The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were refused the chance to serve part-time
Harry and Meghan Markle were once hopeful they could combine royal duty with their own independent projects, but the late Queen Elizabeth II refused their request.
Cultural commentator Kristen Meinzer explained in a conversation with Express US that in an ideal world, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex could have followed the example of Edward and Sophie, who early in their marriage balanced outside careers with royal service. “The Queen did not grant Harry and Meghan the same opportunity,” she said, adding that the institution also failed to address the racism Meghan experienced with the seriousness it deserved.
Meinzer suggested that Harry never intended to abandon royal life entirely and could still be open to returning on a part-time basis, if King Charles offered flexibility and proper security. “If he arranged for their duties to have both some flexibility and a great deal of safety, I think Harry and Meghan would certainly consider accepting the opportunity,” she explained.
The Sussexes have built a new life in California with their children, Archie, 6, and Lilibet, 4. Still, Harry is said to miss the UK deeply. According to Meinzer, “He wants to spend time with his UK friends and family. He wants his wife and children to know and love his homeland. That’s why he’s been trying so hard to reinstate the security that Charles took away.”
Their former residence, Frogmore Cottage, has remained a lingering symbol of that uncertainty. Although the couple surrendered their lease after stepping back from senior royal duties, reports suggest Charles has kept it empty as a possible option for their return. While there were plans to hand it over to Andrew, nothing has come of it, leaving the door—quietly—still open.
For now, Harry has been away from Britain for five years. Whether Frogmore remains a “silent invite” or not, his potential return continues to be the subject of speculation both inside and outside the Palace.
