Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have released a statement announcing that they’re “stepping back” as senior members of the Royal Family and will work towards becoming financially independent. They’ll split time between The United Kingdom and North America while they continue to extend full support to Her Majesty The Queen.

“After many months of reflection and internal discussions, we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution,” reads the statement. “We intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen.”

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The statement added, “It is with your encouragement, particularly over the last few years, that we feel prepared to make this adjustment. We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honor our duty to The Queen, the Commonwealth, and our patronages.”

The announcement came as a shock to the Royal Family, as it’s being reported that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex didn’t consult them before making the announcement. There is reportedly a sense of deep disappointment in the palace following the announcement and the country seems divided on whether this was the right move for the royal couple. We wish the royal couple the very best.

Cover image credits: @sussexroyal