Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, remain two of the most closely followed public figures in the world. Since stepping back from their roles as senior members of the British royal family in 2020, the couple has redefined their path by focusing on philanthropy, media projects, and advocacy for social causes. Their journey has drawn global attention, reflecting their ongoing impact on cultural conversations around mental health, equality, and community service.
Transition from Royal Duties to Independent Life
In January 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced their decision to step back from official royal duties. The move, sometimes referred to as “Megxit,” marked a major turning point in their lives. The couple later relocated to California, where they sought financial independence and the opportunity to raise their children, Archie Harrison and Lilibet Diana, in a more private environment.
This decision was confirmed in statements from Buckingham Palace and the Sussexes themselves. The couple emphasized their desire to continue charitable work while pursuing new professional opportunities outside the traditional royal framework.
The Archewell Foundation
Central to their new chapter is the Archewell Foundation, a nonprofit organization launched by Harry and Meghan in 2020. The foundation is dedicated to addressing critical issues such as mental health, gender equality, climate change, and community empowerment.
According to the official Archewell website, the foundation operates three branches: Archewell Foundation (nonprofit initiatives), Archewell Audio (podcasts), and Archewell Productions (film and television content). Their projects often highlight diverse voices, humanitarian efforts, and innovative approaches to social impact.
Media Partnerships and Storytelling
The couple has also pursued storytelling as a way to amplify causes close to their hearts. In 2020, they signed a multiyear deal with Netflix to produce documentaries, docuseries, scripted content, and children’s programming. Their most high-profile release, the docuseries Harry & Meghan, offered an intimate look into their lives, challenges, and motivations.
Additionally, Meghan hosted the podcast Archetypes through Spotify, which explored labels and stereotypes that limit women. While their partnership with Spotify ended in 2023, the podcast sparked meaningful discussions and further established Meghan’s voice as a cultural commentator.
Mental Health and Advocacy
Prince Harry has long been vocal about mental health, drawing from his own experiences and his time serving in the British Army. He co-founded Heads Together, a mental health campaign, alongside Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales.
In his new role outside of the royal family, Harry has continued this advocacy. He collaborated with Oprah Winfrey on The Me You Can’t See, a documentary series highlighting mental health struggles and personal resilience. His work underscores the importance of breaking stigma and encouraging open conversations.
Meghan has also been active in this space. She has spoken openly about her own challenges and has consistently advocated for greater compassion, empathy, and resources for mental wellness.
Family Life in California
Today, Harry and Meghan live in Montecito, California, where they are raising their two children. While they maintain a degree of privacy, they occasionally share updates about family life during interviews or appearances. Their focus on creating a stable and nurturing environment for Archie and Lilibet reflects their commitment to balancing public responsibility with private family values.
Public Engagements and Philanthropy
The couple continues to engage in philanthropic work through both Archewell and collaborations with other organizations. Notable initiatives include:
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Support for COVID-19 response: During the pandemic, they partnered with organizations providing food and resources to vulnerable communities.
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Gender equality and women’s empowerment: Meghan has long advocated for women’s rights, including her work with the United Nations before her marriage. She continues this focus through Archewell initiatives.
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Veterans and military families: Prince Harry remains dedicated to supporting veterans. He founded the Invictus Games, an international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women, which continues to be a cornerstone of his public service.
Challenges and Public Perception
While Harry and Meghan have built a new life, they have also faced challenges, including intense media scrutiny and public debates about their choices. Their interviews and public statements have sparked discussions about the balance between personal privacy and public life.
Despite these challenges, the couple has consistently emphasized values of compassion, resilience, and community. Their willingness to share personal struggles has helped broaden conversations around mental health and the pressures of public roles.
Looking Ahead
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s journey continues to evolve. With ongoing projects in media, philanthropy, and advocacy, they remain influential figures shaping global conversations. Their story reflects both the complexities of modern public life and the possibilities of using a platform for positive change.
As they move forward, their focus on service, storytelling, and family remains at the heart of their mission. Whether through the Archewell Foundation, media productions, or public speaking, Harry and Meghan are working to build a legacy rooted in empathy, resilience, and meaningful impact.
