The Duke of Sussex, better known as Prince Harry, was born into the British royal family as the younger son of King Charles III and the late Princess Diana. He spent his early years under intense public scrutiny and royal protocol. As a working royal, he carried out official duties, supported charities, and served in the British Army. His approachable style and commitment to causes like mental health and veterans’ support won him global admiration.
Marriage and the Gift of Frogmore Cottage
In 2018, the Duke of Sussex married Meghan Markle, an American actress. The late Queen Elizabeth II gifted the couple Frogmore Cottage. A historic residence on the Windsor estate, as a wedding present. The property underwent extensive renovations, reportedly costing British taxpayers £2.4 million before the couple moved in. Frogmore Cottage became their UK base, offering privacy and a sense of belonging within the royal fold.
A New Chapter: Stepping Back from Royal Life
By 2020, the Duke of Sussex and his wife made a landmark decision to step back from their roles as senior royals. They relocated to Montecito, California, seeking financial independence and greater personal freedom. Despite their move, the couple intended to keep Frogmore Cottage as a home for UK visits and family gatherings. The Duke of Sussex saw the cottage as a crucial link to his heritage and a place of safety during legal battles and public controversies.
The Memoir and Its Aftermath
In January 2023, the Duke of Sussex published his memoir, “Spare.” The book contained candid revelations about his experiences within the royal family and his struggles with the institution. The memoir’s release created a media storm and reportedly deepened the rift between Harry and his family. Just a day after “Spare” hit the shelves, King Charles III initiated proceedings to evict the Duke and Duchess of Sussex from Frogmore Cottage. This decision shocked the couple, who had believed the home would always be available for their UK stays.
The Eviction: Emotional Impact and Royal Dynamics
The eviction from Frogmore Cottage had a profound emotional impact on the Duke of Sussex. According to royal authors, Harry was “absolutely furious and in tears” over the decision. Viewing it as a personal and vindictive blow. He reportedly called his father to express his distress, asking, “Don’t you want to see your grandchildren?”. The couple’s spokesperson confirmed they had been asked to vacate the property, ending their formal ties to the Windsor estate.
Royal insiders suggest that Princess Anne played a significant role in advising King Charles to take a firm approach. While Prince Edward expressed reservations about the move. The eviction marked a turning point in the Duke of Sussex’s relationship with his family, signalling the end of an era and the start of a new, more independent chapter.
Life in America and Ongoing Challenges
Since relocating to California, the Duke of Sussex and his family have built a new life focused on philanthropy, media projects, and raising their children, Archie and Lilibet. Despite the distance, Harry has returned to the UK for significant events, including Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee and King Charles’s cancer diagnosis. However, security concerns and strained family relations continue to shape his visits.
Frogmore Cottage remains empty, and its future is uncertain. Prince Andrew was reportedly offered the residence, though he prefers to remain at Royal Lodge, his longtime home. The Duke of Sussex’s journey reflects the complexities of royal life, personal identity, and the pursuit of autonomy in the modern era.
The Duke of Sussex in the Public Eye
The story of the Duke of Sussex continues to captivate audiences worldwide. His experiences highlight the challenges of balancing tradition with personal values and the evolving role of the monarchy. The saga of Frogmore Cottage symbolises both royal privilege and the costs of breaking with convention. As the Duke of Sussex navigates life beyond the palace gates, his legacy remains a subject of public fascination and debate.