Ex-staff member says strict royal schedules may have contributed to tensions inside the monarchy
A former royal butler has opened up about Meghan Markle’s time within the royal family, suggesting that the strict structure of palace life may have been difficult for the Duchess of Sussex.
Grant Harrold, who served the royal household for many years and worked closely with Princess Diana, recently shared his perspective on Meghan Markle’s experience after marrying into the monarchy.
Speaking to The Express US on behalf of OLBG, Harrold said Meghan was initially welcomed warmly by those around the royal family.
“I think everybody found Meghan a breath of fresh air at the beginning,” he said, adding that there was genuine excitement about her joining the royal household.
According to him, many believed her arrival would mark a new chapter for the monarchy. He explained that people were happy to see Harry and Meghan Markle start their life together as part of the royal family.
However, Harrold suggested that things may have changed once Meghan became more familiar with the strict routines of royal life.
He noted that royal schedules are often arranged months in advance and rarely altered. As an example, he recalled hearing that Meghan once wanted to invite friends for lunch but was unable to do so because official plans had already been set.
“The schedules are planned out six months in advance and they are very strict,” he explained.
Harrold believes this level of structure may have made Meghan feel that her personal life was heavily controlled. Still, he pointed out that such rules are a long-standing part of how the royal household operates.
“But that is how it works in the royal household,” he said, suggesting that adjusting to the system can be challenging for newcomers.
