After stepping down from their royal duties, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have embarked on a journey into various sectors, including producing Netflix docuseries, managing the Invictus Games, and engaging in extensive philanthropy. Their latest endeavour is the launch of a lifestyle brand named American Riviera Orchard, along with two new OTT shows on the horizon. Despite these ventures, reports suggest that Meghan’s ambitions post-royalty remain unfulfilled, especially in comparison to Prince Harry’s cousins, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, who have successfully maintained regular jobs away from the spotlight.
Meghan Markle’s Aspirations for Stardom
When Meghan and Harry decided to step down from their roles as working royals in 2020, they publicly sought a quieter life, distanced from relentless tabloid scrutiny. However, royal commentator Jane Barr offers a different perspective. In her newsletter, ‘From Berkshire to Buckingham,’ Barr posits that Meghan may have craved even more attention, drawing on her successful acting career before her marriage to Harry. According to Barr, Meghan’s ambitious goals would not have been satisfied by a ‘half in, half out’ royal role.
The Desire for Independence and Fame
Barr asserts that Meghan aimed to retain her HRH title and become a superstar on the international stage, independent of the Crown’s control. This ambition, Barr argues, starkly contrasts with the quieter lives led by Harry’s cousins, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie. Unlike Meghan, who might not find contentment in a low-key lifestyle, the York sisters have embraced regular employment and generally avoid the media spotlight, living relatively modest lives despite their royal connections.
The Impact of Royal Hierarchies
Prince Harry, despite his frustrations about being the “spare” heir, has always been more prominent than his cousins due to his closer proximity to the throne. Barr explains that Harry and his brother William, from birth, were considered preeminent royals. In contrast, their cousins, though celebrated, were always seen as secondary figures within the royal family. This distinction has shaped their roles and public perceptions over the years.
The American Riviera Orchard Brand
Meghan and Harry’s new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, signifies their ambition to carve out a unique space in the entrepreneurial and entertainment worlds. The brand aims to blend their passions for wellness, sustainability, and high-quality living. The launch of this brand, coupled with their upcoming OTT shows, demonstrates their commitment to building a legacy beyond royal confines.
Future Prospects for Archie and Lilibet
The future roles of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s children, Archie and Lilibet, also spark considerable interest. According to royal experts, the potential for Archie and Lilibet to become working royals hinges on decisions made by unexpected members of the royal family. These dynamics underscore the complex relationship between personal aspirations and royal obligations.
Conclusion: Meghan and Harry’s Ongoing Journey
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s transition from royalty to private entrepreneurs and public figures reflects their ongoing quest for independence and influence. Their varied ventures, from American Riviera Orchard to their media projects, illustrate their desire to shape their narrative and create impactful legacies. As they navigate these new roles, the comparisons to other royals, like Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, highlight the diverse paths members of the royal family can take. Ultimately, Meghan and Harry’s story is one of balancing personal dreams with public expectations, forging a new chapter in their extraordinary lives.