It’s been five years since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, officially stepped down from their duties as senior members of the UK royal family. And it seems that Prince Harry, who was once a beloved figure in the British royal family, is now facing challenges finding purpose in the U.S.
While his wife Meghan Markle continues to shine in the spotlight— launching lifestyle brands, signing big deals, and producing content— Prince Harry seems to be fading from public view. His recent exit from Sentebale, the African charity he co-founded, has left him without a major cause to focus on, raising concerns about his growing isolation, reports suggest.
According to sources, Prince Harry is feeling the weight of this shift and the choices he has made in the recent past. A palace insider told Radar Online, “Harry is utterly heartbroken about how his life is panning out. He just doesn’t have enough to fill his days.”
Meghan’s rise, Harry’s uncertainty?
Despite Harry’s well-known desire to live a life of service, experts say that he is struggling to find his footing outside of the UK royal institution, despite trying hard. Historian Tess Dunlop notes that while Meghan’s marriage to Harry catapulted her into A-list celebrity status, Harry hasn’t found the same success.
As Meghan juggles appearances and ventures— including high-profile visits to Nigeria and Colombia— Harry has had fewer opportunities to shine. With Meghan’s packed schedule, she reportedly has little time to support his initiatives, and he’s slowly being overshadowed.
A Prince without a role?
Since stepping down from royal duties in 2020, Harry has lost key roles, including his honorary military titles. And now with his involvement in Sentebale ending, he’s left mainly with the Invictus Games to represent his public work.
Tess Dunlop reflects on his current position, saying, “His princely offerings of polo fundraisers and diplomatic glad-handing already feel a little dated.” While his heart may still be in the right place, Harry’s ability to connect with audiences on his own is clearly diminishing.
What’s next for Harry?
The big question now is: can Harry find a new purpose? A quick cameo in Meghan’s Netflix show may make headlines, but it’s hardly a satisfying role for someone once at the center of royal life.
As Meghan continues to rise professionally, Harry seems to be stuck in her shadow. Will he be able to find a purpose in life again? Only time can reveal.
