More than five years after stepping back from royal life, Prince Harry is still adjusting to life far from Buckingham Palace — and according to several royal commentators, that transition has been more complicated than it might appear.
Now living in California with Meghan Markle and their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, the Duke of Sussex has created a new rhythm for his family. But when it comes to building a stable, independent role for himself, some experts believe he is still finding his way.
Historian Marlene Koenig, speaking with Us Weekly, said Harry appears committed to his new life abroad — but admits that success hasn’t come easily. “I’m not sure if Harry has regrets about leaving, as he’s determined to build a new life in the U.S.,” she explained. “But he hasn’t been entirely successful, especially in terms of earning money for the family. That seems to have fallen on Meghan.”
Since stepping back from official royal duties in 2020, Harry has explored several ventures. His bestselling memoir Spare made global headlines, and the Netflix docuseries Harry & Meghan offered rare insight into their life post-Monarchy. He’s also taken on a role at mental health startup BetterUp. Yet his solo professional identity — separate from Meghan and the royal brand — remains loosely defined.
Finding a new legacy outside the crown
While Meghan has launched personal projects and brands like As Ever and Confessions of a Female Founder, Harry’s pursuits have often felt more fragmented.
“He may be comfortable in his California home with his wife and two adorable children,” Koenig said, “but what he hasn’t found yet is the comfort of a success outside at home.”
That sentiment was echoed by royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams, who pointed out that no matter how peaceful Harry’s life looks now, some elements of loss are difficult to avoid. “Any exile is bound to have regrets,” he noted, citing Harry’s well-known disappointment at being stripped of his military titles and his ongoing estrangement from family members — especially his brother.
Harry himself has acknowledged some of that sadness. In an interview with the BBC earlier this year, the Duke shared his wish for reconciliation: “There’s no point in continuing to fight anymore. Life is precious. I don’t know how much longer my father has.”
While Prince William is preparing for the long path to kingship, Harry’s journey remains one of self-discovery. “One brother has found his role and knows what he has to do to prepare for his future,” Koenig said. “The other brother has yet to find the right balance for a successful career away from what he was raised to be.”
Despite the challenges, Harry and Meghan continue to show a united front publicly. But behind the scenes, Harry’s search for purpose — and peace — may be far from over.