During Meghan Markle’s initial meeting with Queen Elizabeth II, a heartfelt interaction unfolded that shaped Meghan’s early experience within the royal family. The meeting, which occurred in the early stages of her relationship with Prince Harry, lasted around 20 minutes. Despite its brevity, it was a significant moment that left a lasting impression on both Meghan and the Queen.
At the time, Meghan was an established actress, best known for her role in the television series *Suits*. The Queen, aware of Meghan’s career, expressed that she could continue acting if she desired. However, Meghan expressed her eagerness to embrace royal duties fully. This decision pleased the Queen, especially since Meghan showed a keen interest in the Commonwealth, an area of great importance to the Queen. Meghan promised that she would not let the Queen down regarding her responsibilities towards the Commonwealth. This commitment was met with approval and warmth from the Queen, who was delighted by Meghan’s enthusiasm and expressed her affection for her future granddaughter-in-law to others.
Despite this promising start, Meghan and Harry’s roles within the royal family evolved differently than initially anticipated. In 2020, the couple stepped back from their senior royal duties, a decision that included relinquishing their formal roles in the Commonwealth. This move was contrary to Meghan’s earlier promise, but it was influenced by the couple’s desire to prioritize their well-being and independence. The Queen decided that a “half-in, half-out” arrangement was not feasible, leading to the couple’s complete departure from royal duties.
Throughout this transition, Meghan and Harry expressed a continued commitment to service, despite no longer holding official roles. They emphasized that service is universal and can be pursued beyond traditional frameworks. This nuanced situation reflects the complex dynamics between personal choices and public duties, underscoring the challenges faced by those navigating the expectations of royal life.
