Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have shared details about their dramatic final appearance as working members of the royal family, which took place two months after their announcement to step back from their official roles.
In January 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex made the public decision to step down as senior members of the royal family. Their last official engagement followed soon after at the Commonwealth Day Service of Celebration held at Westminster Abbey, marking the end of their royal duties.
The Final Royal Engagement
The couple, joined by Queen Elizabeth II, then-Prince Charles, Prince William, Kate Middleton, and other members of the royal family, attended the service, which was broadcast globally. This event marked their final official appearance before stepping back from royal responsibilities.
Behind the Scenes: Harry & Meghan’s Documentary
In their 2022 Netflix documentary Harry & Meghan, the couple shared their emotional journey leading up to their decision to step back from royal duties.
Meghan recalled their final royal event at Westminster Abbey, saying it was the first time they saw the family in public. Harry admitted they were nervous, calling it like “living through a soap opera,” with the world watching. Though Meghan smiled and waved at William and Kate, Harry said the interaction felt distant.
Harry spoke of feeling emotionally disconnected from his family, noting that appearances mattered more than emotions: “It looked cold. But it also felt cold.”
After their departure, Queen Elizabeth II publicly supported their choice, saying while she preferred they stay as working royals, she respected their decision to seek a more independent life.
Since then, Meghan launched a new Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, featuring cooking and entertaining tips alongside celebrity guests.