Why Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Love Story Is a Rare Royal Success—and What the Monarchy Lost by Pushing Them Away
In a world where royal marriages are often built on duty rather than devotion, the union of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle has proven to be both a love story and a symbol of resilience. As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex celebrate their seventh wedding anniversary in 2025, one truth stands clear: against all odds, their marriage has thrived where many royal relationships have crumbled. Their departure from the royal family may have caused waves, but it also exposed deep fractures within the monarchy—fractures rooted in outdated systems, racial bias, and fear of change.
A Love Story Beyond Tradition
When Prince Harry fell in love with Meghan Markle, an American actress, biracial woman, and self-made philanthropist, it signaled a potential shift for the British royal family. Meghan represented something fresh—a modern royal who connected with people through emotion, activism, and authenticity. Unlike past royal pairings that often prioritized lineage and reputation, Meghan and Harry's relationship was visibly genuine, grounded in shared values and mutual respect.
From the beginning, they showed a united front—working together on causes close to their hearts like mental health, gender equality, and racial justice. Their chemistry was undeniable. Despite constant media scrutiny and brutal headlines, they leaned on each other rather than fall apart, choosing to protect their mental health and family by stepping away from royal duties in 2020.
Success Compared to Other Royal Marriages
While some royal couples have struggled with scandal, divorce, or emotional distance, Meghan and Harry have only grown stronger with time. For comparison:
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Charles and Diana were famously mismatched, caught in a marriage of convenience and plagued by infidelity and public embarrassment.
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Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson were engulfed in scandal and divorced within a decade.
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Even William and Kate, though still together, face critiques of being overly traditional and distant from modern realities, especially compared to Meghan and Harry's heartfelt outreach and activism.
In contrast, Meghan and Harry have built a brand together, launched successful media ventures, raised two children in peace, and—most importantly—maintained a visible bond of affection and teamwork.
The Price of Jealousy and Racism
But their love came at a cost. Meghan was subjected to relentless attacks from British tabloids, often rooted in racism, misogyny, and xenophobia. The palace, instead of shielding her, remained largely silent—fueling speculation that internal jealousy, particularly about her popularity and work ethic, may have played a role in the couple's mistreatment.
The comparison to Princess Diana is not accidental. Diana, too, was adored by the public and resented internally for overshadowing the institution. Meghan seemed to follow the same path—dynamic, beloved by a global audience, yet undermined at home.
Harry, who witnessed his mother suffer in silence, made the bold choice to break the cycle. Together, they stepped away not just from royal duties, but from a toxic environment that prioritized image over well-being.
What the Royal Family Lost
Had the monarchy embraced Meghan and Harry, the royal family might have found new relevance in an increasingly diverse and globalized world. Meghan brought not just youth and charisma, but a cultural bridge to modern audiences who might otherwise ignore the crown altogether. Her ability to speak on social issues, connect emotionally, and build community could have transformed the royal brand into something more inclusive and powerful.
Instead, what should have been their greatest strength became a perceived threat.
By alienating the couple, the monarchy lost more than two senior royals—they lost the chance to show evolution. And today, as Meghan and Harry thrive independently with a global fanbase, the royal family is left grappling with aging leadership and questions about its role in a changing society.
Meghan and Harry’s marriage isn’t just a personal success—it’s a cultural milestone. It’s a reminder that love, truth, and growth matter more than tradition for tradition’s sake. They’ve built a home, a family, and a mission—on their own terms.
In doing so, they’ve shown the world that royalty is not defined by titles, crowns, or palaces. It’s defined by integrity, courage, and love that withstands even the fiercest storm.
And in that sense, Meghan and Harry may be the most “royal” couple of them all.
