Sussexes’ request for a part-time role was denied by the late Queen
Prince Harry reportedly wanted the same arrangement with Meghan Markle that his uncle Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie once had — the chance to balance royal service with their own pursuits.
Cultural critic and podcaster Kristen Meinzer told Daily Express US that Harry never intended to walk away entirely from his royal role. “Harry has repeatedly said that it was never his intention to completely surrender his senior royal duties,” she explained. “In a perfect world, he and Meghan would have been able to do what Edward and Sophie did early on in their marriage — pursue their own passions while also serving the crown.”
That request, however, was denied by the late Queen Elizabeth, who rejected the couple’s proposal for a half-in, half-out arrangement. Meinzer noted that circumstances could change under King Charles. “Charles is not his mother. And 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.”
Harry, who now lives in California with Meghan and their children Archie and Lilibet, is said to miss the UK. “He wants his wife and children to know and love his homeland,” Meinzer added, pointing out that security remains his top concern.
Their former residence, Frogmore Cottage, could play a role in any return. “It was always their hope to make the Cottage their UK home,” she said.
For now, the Sussexes’ future within the monarchy remains uncertain — but experts suggest that a compromise, once denied, may still be possible.
