Harry and Meghan, after taking a six-week break from their royal duties, made the unprecedented decision to “step back as ‘senior’ members of the Royal Family,” according to a statement issued by the couple. It is thought that the couple did not consult the queen or other members of the royal family before issuing their statement.
Although “senior” is not an official designation for members of the royal family, this grouping includes Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip, Prince Charles, Camilla Parker-Bowles, Prince William, Kate Middleton, and — as it still stands as of this writing — Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan Markle. Despite the couple expressing their intent to step down, it’s not set in stone. Buckingham Palace issued its own statement following the big announcement: “Discussions with The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are at an early stage. We understand their desire to take a different approach, but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through.”
If Harry and Meghan do relinquish their roles in the royal family, though, it would mean radical changes to their lives. These are all the things Harry and Meghan won’t be able to do if they step down.