Royal insiders claim Meghan Markle and Harry are struggling with feelings of jealousy toward William and Catherine as financial pressure mounts for the California-based couple.
The claims come as reports suggest staff at the Archewell Foundation have been made redundant because the organisation had become too expensive to run. At the same time, sources say the couple were stunned to learn how much William earns each year.
According to recent reports, the Prince of Wales brings in around $30 million annually through the Duchy of Cornwall.
A royal source told Closer that Meghan and Harry see a major double standard in how their income is treated compared with William’s. “From Harry and Meghan’s point of view, it feels incredibly unfair and hypocritical,” the insider said. “Any time they land a big payday, they’re criticised and labelled greedy.”
The source added that William’s earnings attract little public scrutiny. “William can pull in $30 million and no one questions why he’s getting paid so much. He also earns more through other ventures linked to the Duchy of Cornwall, yet you never hear accusations that he’s money-hungry the way Meghan and Harry are.”
The insider continued, “The rules are completely different depending on which side of the family you’re on. It’s a massive double standard.”
Meghan and Harry stepped down as senior royals in 2020 and have since relied on private income streams. Sources say the contrast with William’s financial position has been hard for them to accept, especially now that cash flow has reportedly become an issue.
“That’s a tough pill to swallow,” the insider said. “It’s triggered some very real jealousy. They genuinely believe they work just as hard, if not harder, for causes they care about, yet the financial rewards don’t even come close.”
