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Open Post: The Sussex Announcement

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have announced that they are stepping down as senior Royals.

Supposedly the announcement, which was made on Instagram, went ahead without informing the Queen in advance.

There are already many comments discussing the Sussex announcement on the previous post, but let's continue the discussion here.

Comments

Glow W said…
Statement

“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. 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, 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 Comminwealfh, and our patronages. This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity.

We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty the Queen, the Prince of Wales, the Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties. Until then, please accept our deepest thanks for your continued support.”

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex
KitKatKisses said…
The more I think about this, the more I think it has something to do with Archie. IDK, just a gut feeling.
Glow W said…
Here are royal reporter comments on twitter:

Dickie Arbiter: I’m sorry and disappointed by their decision.

Chris Ship: how do they become financially independent? What happens to the Sussex foundation? Does Meghan go back to acting? Does Harry give up his place in the line of succession? Basically, too many questions.

Richard Palmer: was trying to figure out why yesterday’s visit wasn’t in court circular and then said the palace press offices aren’t answering journalists calls today (before announcement). Then just gave the news that they are stepping back and will split time between U.K. and North America

Gert’s Royals: nothing yet

Richard Eden: what a scoop this turned out to be (reference dan Wooton). What is it about American divorces and The BRF? In the space of a few months, the queen had sacked her second son and her grandson quit, who is next?

Dan Wooton: prince Harry and Meghan planning a move to Canada for a significant portion of the year. I’ll have many mire world exclusive details of this royal bombshell tomorrow in the sun
Glow W said…
The palace has issues a new statement,

Just says discussions are at an early stage. we understand their desire to take a different approach but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through
Sandie said…
I can't find the original and this is not the full text, but I am copying this from elsewhere (this is Megsy trying to control and dominate and completely disrespect the Queen and all senior royals and the entire institution):

From their website:

Why are The Duke and Duchess of Sussex choosing this new working model?
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex take great pride in their work and are committed to continuing their charitable endeavours as well as establishing new ones. In addition, they value the ability to earn a professional income, which in the current structure they are prohibited from doing. For this reason they have made the choice to become members of the Royal Family with financial independence. Their Royal Highnesses feel this new approach will enable them to continue to carry out their duties for Her Majesty The Queen, while having the future financial autonomy to work externally.

Do any other members of the Royal Family hold a title and earn an income?
Yes, there is precedent for this structure and applies to other current members of the Royal Family who support the monarch and also have full time jobs external to their commitment to the monarchy.

By becoming financially independent, will The Duke and Duchess of Sussex be cutting ties with the monarchy?
As working members of the Royal Family, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex remain dedicated to maximising Her Majesty’s legacy both in the UK and throughout the Commonwealth. They will continue to proudly do so by supporting their patronages and carrying out works for The Monarchy within the UK or abroad, as called upon.

How has the Office of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex been funded up to now?
Since the establishment of The Office of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, 95 percent of the funding received for their Office expenditure is derived from income allocated by HRH The Prince of Wales, generated through the Duchy of Cornwall. This provision has been in place since Prince William and Prince Harry first established their offices in support of The Queen, and is the responsibility of The Prince of Wales. This information continues to be available on The Duchy of Cornwall website.

Where does the other five percent come from?
As described above, the remaining five percent of funding for the Office of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, covering costs associated with employing members of their official office, is received through the Sovereign Grant. During the course of 2020, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have made the choice to step back as senior members of the Royal Family and no longer receive funding through the Sovereign Grant, thereby making them members of the Royal Family with financial independence. This phased approach will take time to transition in consultation with other senior members of the Royal Family, but Their Royal Highnesses are hopeful that this change is in the best interest for all and look forward to carrying out their duties to the monarch as well as their charitable work with financial autonomy. (In other words: They are only giving up 5% that comes from the Sovereign Grant, they will still be privately funded by Charles.)
Fairy Crocodile said…
Nutty, you were right she was finished in the royal family. You are right they didn't inform the Queen and didn't get advice from the Palace.

They are essentially rogue and bullying the royals. So badly thought, so unprofessional, so typical of her. I bet this time she bit more than she can chew.
Glow W said…
@JLC said: “Tatty,

It also says (!) "Frogmore Cottage will continue to be the property of Her Majesty the Queen. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will continue to use Frogmore Cottage – with the permission of Her Majesty The Queen – as their official residence as they continue to support the Monarchy, and so that their family will always have a place to call home in the United Kingdom."

I wonder if the Queen will give her permission now?!”

Yes, I wonder if that was more of a wish rather than a reality?
Louise said…
Tatty: Dan Wooten broke this story yesterday (or was it two days ago?). He seems to be well connected and I look forward to what he has to say.
Glow W said…
@louise absolutely, I can’t wait until tomorrow.
Princess Mrs. B said…
At the risk of repeating myself from the last post, I think that Meghan was indeed not wearing her wedding rings this morning. Her fingers were splayed out in an attempt to call attention to the fact that she wasn't wearing her rings. My guess is that she was very unhappy about the outcome of discussions with the family and that she felt Harry didn't step up enough to defend them. Taking off the rings was a message to Harry that she is prepared to leave him if she doesn't get her way. Clearly it worked because they made the announcement before anything was settled with the Palace. What Meghan wants, Meghan gets. Strange that the bumbling Thomas Markle, Jr. was right on all counts in his open letter to Harry.
KayeC said…
@KitKatKisses, I have the same feeling. Has TorontoPaper been right all this time? I think so, that is why I continued to read their posts. The more someone tries to call you crazy, the more I think the person doing the name-calling has something to hide.

@Sandie, thanks for posting. Who in the BRF has this "precedent" of working and having a title? The York Princess are blood princesses, and are not funded by the taxpayer. I swear the IG statement read as if they get to keep all the perks. I just don't see the British public putting up with that.
FrenchieLiv said…
Revealed blind gossip : Meg's big plan to brand and merchandise and monetize her new life (some more explanation) :
https://blindgossip.com/the-big-plan/#more-99874
JLC said…
I'm genuinely quite shocked by their website. The main bit I have looked at is the Funding section, which has a question and answer format - no doubt, so Meg can have her say about travel expenditure (yes, she covers that) and anything else she wants to get off her chest.
HappyDays said…
Meghan has been the likely driving force behind thus decision. I think this is the beginning of an ignominious end for these two, and they will deserve it. I feel bad for Archie and any other children she manages to bring forth — one way or another. This child has a profoundly malignant narcissist for a mother who will use him as a prop and a foolish, emasculated man for a father.
Shaggy said…
This comment has been removed by the author.
Unknown said…
This has "conflict of interest" written all over it.The "blurring of the lines between celebrities and royals " is one of the main complaints from those who have been subsidizing their lifestyle. Hopefully Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace will stand their ground during negotiations of this split.
Sandie said…
Has anyone got the rest of the text? I think they have stated that they will get paid when they take on engagements for the Queen.

I can't believe that they posted all their terms, put it out in the public without agreement with BP or any senior royals.

Harry, run!
KayeC said…
@Princess Mrs B, I was thinking the same thing about her relatives!! They tried to warn them....and no one listened and the fans called them horrible things....LOL. I have always been a conspiracy theorist, my dad firmly placed my tin-hat on my head at a young age. This has been one big mess from the beginning, and I hope the BRF makes it through the next "phase" of the H&M show!!
Fairy Crocodile said…
Chris Ship says the Queen had not been consulted or even informed. So all their financial items are just wishful thinking.

I would love to see Harry on the carpet before the Queen and Wills. Harry would have a pale outlook and cold ears.
CatEyes said…
@KayeC said"

>>The more someone tries to call you crazy, the more I think the person doing the name-calling has something to hide.<<

Yes, Amen!
Piroska said…
I have seen it suggested that this announce was timed to take attention away from Duchess of Cambridge birthday but is it entirely a coincidence that a 6 part drama White House has started onTV tonight featuring Cressida Bonas in one of the main roles?
Mimi said…
The ball is now in the RF court. Hope they come up with a real whopper (a la Andrew’s retirement). Who do these two think they are that they can dictate to the Queen what their demands are???????
SwampWoman said…
Sandie says: (In other words: They are only giving up 5% that comes from the Sovereign Grant, they will still be privately funded by Charles.) Maybe.

If they were involved in delicate negotiations and she just threw a hissy fit and stomped away counting on getting more freebies to urge her back to the negotiations, I can see BP saying "Well, if you feel THAT way, just go make your way with your own money and our blessings. Hope it works out for ya. We've cancelled the royal credit card."

I wonder what the 'delicate negotiations' are. Divorce? Whether they are fit for custody of the Child Known as Archie? BRF family secrets that she wants to monetize? The royal family wanting to pay the rent on a 2 BR 1 bath apartment in Toronto vs. a mansion?
Liver Bird said…
"Chris Ship says the Queen had not been consulted or even informed. So all their financial items are just wishful thinking."

I agree. It's a negotiating tactic, or what Meghan - we know she's the 'brain' behind this - thinks is one. But it's the Queen and Charles who will ultimately decide. Since the Harkles have already showed their hand, they have little left to negotiate with.

I suspect we're only at the start of this story.
CatEyes said…
If Megatron and Hapless tries to come over here and get free security on the US dime, I will write my Congressman, my Senator and the President as we threw off the British yolk centuries ago and I am not about to fund two British royals (and yes, Meg is a British royal being that she is a Duchass) with my hard-earned money$$$.

I will also predict that those two will fall on their face in Hollyweird (after their initial obligatory interview by Ophra and Ellen.
Marie said…
Thanks to Nutty for creating the new open post while being busy and to all posters who are sharing the official statements, royal reporter tweets, etc. Meghan seems hell-bent on getting the best of all worlds and to monetise her Sussex Royal brand without having to sacrifice anything. What a mess they let in. What kind of job will they try to achieve financial independence? She was an Instragram and blogger. And most likely Harry will continue giving his speeches at rich playboy events, like that event where he had barefeet and all the billionaires brought private yachts. I imagine this Travalyst venture is another idea. While it sounds all very hasty and unplanned, I wonder very much if they had had this Plan B simmering for a while. It puts the lawsuits, releasing the lawsuit statement on their private domain of Sussex Royal, the strange pseudo-commercial Travalyst venture, and even the painfully explicit, long list of trademarks for the Sussex Royal in a different light for me.

@Princess B, I didn't see the photos of her fingers, but I'm beginning to wonder if indeed she would do this to manipulate Harry into reminding him what she's willing to do.
punkinseed said…
I think Megs told Harry it was either his family or her for a long time now. She feels the royals haven't treated her very well, because you know, she expected them to fawn all over her, roll out the red carpet for everything just for her. She expected the queen to move all of the traditions and protocol aside and throw her a big birthday party at Balmoral; have Doria for Xmas at Sandringham; Kate was expected to throw her a baby shower and invite her to birthday parties, etc., and include her in all things, but when none of that happened the way she wanted it on her terms then she determined that she was being snubbed and dissed. Well... during all the paranoid snubbings, Megs would rant to Harry that he should do whatever it takes to convince his family to do things her way. "It's them or me!" "If you really loved me, you'd be on my side..." blah blah blah. "If you don't choose me we are done..."
I lived this BS routine for 40 years so I speak from experience. No idea how the hell I had the strength to endure and survive it. He died 3 years ago. Harry has a type of Stockholm Syndrome. It's obvious to me and anyone else who has survived a Narc.
Small wonder that Harry looks like he's waiting for the Sword of Damocles to drop on his head all the time. No wonder he looks so sad, angry, unwashed, uncaring and pathetic. So now Harry must feel like he's been exiled to Canada. This is NOT going to go well for him. He's barely holding it together as it is. He requires a steady, familiar and structured routine and being so far from his friends and stomping grounds is going to make him eventually lose it. Nice going Megs. You've succeeded in gaslighting and isolating your prey. She knows full well what she's doing but she's such a bunny boiler whack job she has convinced herself that she's always right and the world is wrong no matter who she blows up in the process.
octobergirl said…
@Liver Bird It comes off as so disrespectful to the Queen. Bad optics. And Meagan wonders why people don't like her.
Princess Mrs. B said…
I am reminded of Diana jumping the gun in her attempt to scoop the Palace by announcing that she had offered to give up her HRH. The Queen was furious and said, "OK, then. Let's take the HRH away if that's what she wants." Meghan always thinks that she's the smartest, cleverest person in the room but she has never gone to battle with the BRF. This premature announcement will hurt her in the long run. The gloves are off now. She may be 93 but don't f*** with Her Maj. She's the Queen of England FFS and she's dealt with a lot smarter people than MM.
Dido said…
I found this gem in the "About" section The Official Website of The Duke & Duchess of Sussex"

Sussexroyal.com was created as a source of factual information regarding the workstreams of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Through this website you will find key information about their commitment to: Community, The Monarchy, and The Commonwealth, as well as answers to many questions. This information can be found on the following pages: Funding and Media.

https://sussexroyal.com/about/

"factual information regarding the workstreams of The Duke & Duchess of Sussex" LOL!!!

No doubt their "charitable entity" will be modeled after the Clinton Foundation.
Vince said…
Amazing. I am so thrilled! She did it, she actually did it.

There can be no illusions now. Harry has enabled an egocentric buffoon who actually thinks this will work.

I'm so happy for the royal family. They must be elated at the news. Sad for Harry, of course, but free from the albatross (the one besides Andrew) that has been haunting them for the last several years.

The sugars will try to cover this over, and say the Harkles were "forced" into this decision. But there is no turning back now.

As I said in a post earlier today, Meghan has to be able to control all of her image. Being in the UK makes that impossible. And she'll be able to do it in North America, until her insufferability wears down even a compliant media.

A great, great day. The Harkles mention financial independence in the statement only shows that this is all about grifting.
pi said…
As a Canadian I am furious. I want to know who will pay for their security here, who will pay for other expenses? Gilded wastrels, wastes of space. You just know they're going to do everything within their power to make us pay for as much as they can get away with. And the freaking Cdn government will be finessed by the BRF into doing it. I want transparency. I don't want them living on my hard-earned dime and making a mess here 24/7.
Louise said…
I suggest taking a look at Omid Scobie's Twitter account(you don't have to be signed into Twitter to read it).

Their plans sound like utter nonsense.. the usual word salad mumbo jumbo with nothing specific.
KitKatKisses said…
Their website is 100% setting up a "rival Court." They plan on being HRH's but independent. It's a huge FU to The Queen.
THIS is what they were setting up during the Canadian vacay.

Honestly, with the Queen and Prince Philip being the ages they are, I hope the shock and stress of this isn't too much for them.
HappyDays said…
I was just talking about the exit with one of my colleagues. He is also very familiar with narcissistic personality disorder. As he said, “Narcs MUST have their way, and if they don’t get their way, they just take their ball (meaning Harry) and go home (North America).”

He thinks they’ll land in LA after a short stay in Canada, and I agree.

Meghan wanted the title and all the goodies that come with it, but none of the responsibilities, protocols or traditions, and nothing to do with the UK or its people. She likely regards the UK as too small for someone as grand as her to live.

She wants to have her cake and eat it too. Narcs are greedy and selfish, so she will probably suffer the gluttonous effects of eating too much cake.
Liver Bird said…
""factual information regarding the workstreams of The Duke & Duchess of Sussex"

What the hell is a 'workstream' when it's at home?
Unknown said…
All I want is that our American tax money not get used on supporting their shenanigans.
@Liver Bird, ‘"Chris Ship says the Queen had not been consulted or even informed. So all their financial items are just wishful thinking."

I agree. It's a negotiating tactic, or what Meghan - we know she's the 'brain' behind this - thinks is one. But it's the Queen and Charles who will ultimately decide. Since the Harkles have already showed their hand, they have little left to negotiate with.

I suspect we're only at the start of this story.’

Completely agree. I personally think she’s overplayed her hand, Prince Charles and William make the decisions, not Meghan or Harry. BP have said discussions are in the early stages and are complicated; they could end up with little. I can’t see the British tax payer wanting to fund a single thing for them, if they aren’t overhere and full time working royals.

I’ll get my popcorn and wait for the next instalment!
Marie said…
How can they call this a "collaboration" if they didn't even inform BP? Their ability to twist the truth so glibly and confidently makes me seriously believe that they will feel entitled to skim the missing 5million GBP in annual income from their "charitable" entity and feel like there is nothing wrong in doing so.
CatEyes said…
I took high-level negotiation tactics from attorneys and there is one simple rule in negotiations, "He who speaks first, loses"!!! Period, end of! No doubt Harkles don't know this simple principle, that, and the 'Crown always wins'. The Queen doesn't even have to move but once and it is checkmate and game over!! LOL
Marie said…
@KitKatKisses, yes I am sure this will end up in some rival court of sorts. Meghan will be self-crowned Queen of the Commonwealth and of the Americas. Playing second fiddle was never her goal; she couldn't even play second fiddle to her own husband, a born and bred royal.
abbyh said…

Liver Bird - bad tactic by M, I agree.

I think the idea of bullying your G-GMIL and telling how she will do this and that to fund your lifestyle is not going to go down well with anyone other than the M fans. That kind of thing just would give William a lovely point to exhibit as to why the BRF needs to band together and play hard ball. He is not the person to oppose you.

Part of me even wonders if she didn't even warn H. This kind of angry flame throwing in all directions without a firm commitment to the other side agreeing to your terms is an act of anger not planning. Like other trial balloons of hers, it could easily deflate to nothing. But unlike the birthday party/cake, this has serious ramifications on many, many levels.

Interesting thought that it may be linked to Archie after all. Especially when several papers printed his name with Prince title. Little guy has been around long enough for everyone to know how to put him in print.

pi said…
Another thing: she's not even a British citizen yet. How can she keep the title, especially the HRH if she's not a Brit and expects to be bouncing around the world?
Hikari said…
My thoughts on a couple of big items impacting 'the Sussex Separation'

1. Archie. A real child (of some 12-13 months) who may have been with Harry in Canada recently but I have cause for doubts. Skippy has posted an interesting contribution from a poster who claims to be a photo editor and she has outlined certain anomalies in the photo, if anybody cares to take a look.

I have always believed that Meg did not give birth to this baby and despite their photographed appearances with him, the notion that they have full time custody of him is suspect to me. Their behavior has never been that of new parents bonding with a newborn. They trot him out for photos when they need optics and the rest of the time he is conveniently ignored as his parents of record jet off to Italian weddings, tennis matches in NY, Lion King premieres and so forth.

He does look like both of them, which is a bit problematic for my theory (lack of visible attachment from the baby to the parents and vice versa does suggest they barely know each other. If Archie is their biological child . . and Harry's longed to be a dad, so he said, why the disconnect between them?) As to where Archie is living and with whom, I don't know. The Queen's acknowledgement of Archie in her Christmas speech now, in the light of today's announcement, feels like a coded message to the Sussexes: Archie is welcome, and will be cared for by us; you are no longer welcome. We must make what we will of this.
Would the Queen allow her great-grandchild to be taken abroad for the better part of a year or permanently, particularly with a mother who would monetize his every waking minute and wouldn't have any compunctions against using him as leverage in a nasty custody battle? What would prevent her from taking Archie to L.A. and forcing the BRF to go though the American court system to skew things in her favor on 'home turf'? What a can of worms that would open with international law. It would be Elian Gonzalez all over again, and Meg has displayed that she is capable of being that selfish, greedy and disruptive.

The Queen does not permit Meghan to set foot on Royal properties or borrow any jewels. If she takes that much care with some of her lesser tiaras, would she not care that much more for a living child who is in the succession and vulnerable to two dysfunctional parents who are potentially both drug addicts at worst and at best, congenitally immature?

If Archie is really Meg and Harry's child, he will stay within the Queen's oversight. Too many issues otherwise, his safety being paramount.

2. Frogmore. The furor over FroggyCott has died down somewhat, being displaced by even more egregious antics from the Sussex duo . . South Africa and subsequent. I do not and have not ever believed that it was the Sussexes' family home. We just have zero corroboration that any of this extensive reno work has ever been done to Meg's specifications, and since nearly all of the supposed renovations appear as items in her lawsuit against the Daily Mail, we can probably consider them false.

I'm a bit surprised that Frogmore Cottage had been allowed to fall into such disrepair after having been demoted to staff quarters . . it has quite an important place in family history as the former residence of Queen Victoria's advisor and the birthplace of Lord Dickie Mountbatten in 1901. On those grounds alone, I'd have thought that Philip would have fought to keep it in good nick as a decent royal property.

I'd lay money that it's not the Sussexes' house and that's all been an elaborate blind to disguise that the couple has in fact been living apart since the wedding in separate locations. If extensive renovations have been done to make it comfortable and liveable, then I hope it will be used in some way . . perhaps to house VIP visitors or another royal couple. Perhaps after Eugenie and Jack start a family they will move out of tiny IvyCott to Frogmore, if the karma vibes don't put them off.
Liver Bird said…
@Raspberry Ruffle

Yup. They said they want to earn a 'professional income' (doing what?) but STILL take taxpayers' money! Hell to the no! If they want to earn their own cash, be like the York girls or Princess Ann's kids and renounce all royal privileges - including taxpayer funded security (that one really riles me!) - and do what you like. Nobody would have the right to care then. But they want it all. The arrogance is astounding.

And yes they - she' - has overplayed her hand massively. Blindsiding the queen like that? Harry's grandmother, who has given her everything? Quite astonishing. This truly is a real-life soap opera, much better than 'Suits' ever was.
Pantsface said…
Independant whilst losing only 5% of their royal income, give me a break, what a load of crap. If the RF continue to give them 95% after this announcement, they are done and will lose all credability, its all or nothing in my opinion
abbyh said…

Oh man, man.

What a show is about to start.

I was thinking about the bad negotiations (Cats Eye - yeah), the thought of Archie in play ... what if part of this is that HM now says Archie must stay here, with me?
Glow W said…
@kitkatkisses yup. They were definitely together in Canada (or jumping around) and they were devoting all of their time to this website and how to answer the questions everyone would have. They needed 6-8 weeks to get it all together.
abbyh said…
Hilkari, you beat me to it
Ozmanda said…

And this

https://twitter.com/RoyalReporter/status/1215004232954339328

"Statement from the Queen’s office at Buckingham Palace: “Discussions with The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are at an early stage. We understand their desire to take a different approach, but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through.” "

Looks like sparkles is doing what she always does, throw statements out without telling the royal family and forcing them to act on it so they don't look bad. I think they will both find the results wont be quite what they hope for.

It is clear their "break" was actually to schmooze and prepare their path to move and be the "celebrity royals" they always wanted to be. I would also expect a lot more photo ops of them separately attending events.

What ever may happen, things are going to blow up now.
Himmy said…
They lost their main bargaining chip with BRF by leaving on their own. You need months of negotiation for this kind of unprecedented breakup. Are they really on drugs?
Liver Bird said…
And note how quick the palace were to issue their own statement and how strongly worded - by royal standards - it was.

It looks like we've got a Battle Royal on our hands! The palace is in no mood to play.
Louise said…
pi: As a Canadian, I also do not want to pay for their security. But I don't see the RF forcing this on us so much as Trudeau gleefully accepting so that his word salad spouting woke wife will have a new playmate.
Anonymous said…
Yet another instance of where she just doesn't understand the people she is dealing with. She should be groveling at the queen's feet instead of laying down a gauntlet. This is a Hollywood-type move. Even Mafia-esque. This only proves to them--if there been any speculation on that score--that she married Harry only for the $$$ and fame. I hope they cut her off at her knees. Then she will hunt for another patsy, and Harry will be dumped before you can say the word grifter. With the rumors swirling around her past, I don't understand how she thinks she holds the whip hand in this. I guess she anticipates them refusing to sacrifice Harry. I think William has had enough of his brother's issues, and will strongly object to ANY concessions other than what Harry is owed by law as a prince of the realm. That will be it. I will not be surprised if Harry doesn't end up overdosing on something. He looks terrible. He will be following in his mother's footsteps by withdrawing from the protection of the BRF in pursuit of what he deems "freedom" from the firm. And yet, he doesn't have the emotional bandwidth to handle someone as grasping and greedy as Ms. Markle. The only bright side of all this is that we will probably get a barrage of photos for three months just because the media is rather ghoulish. Once the publicity train comes to an end, Ms. Markle will start actively hunting for Husband No. 3 (or is that 4).
Nutty Flavor said…
I wonder which media outlet will get the big Sussex departure interview.

Oprah is the obvious choice, but I think she would have to partner with a broadcast network. Her network doesn't have enough reach on its own.

On the other hand, I'm sure "Good Morning America" would like its payback for hiring Meg's BFF Messica.
Glow W said…
@nutty Flavor Howard Stern lol
HappyDays said…
This just hit me: So THIS is why they got the publihed welcome statement from Justin Trudeau when they were allegedly in BC on a private family visit.
Professional income? These two have very few professional qualifications. So, they’re going to earn professional income trading on their royal status. I hope British people find that distasteful enough to cause an uproar.

As another commenter stated above, I will be protesting to my Congressman if US funds are used for their security. It’s fun to watch the British Royal family from afar, but I refuse to pay for it.
KC said…

Blogger Nutty Flavor said...
I wonder which media outlet will get the big Sussex departure interview.

Whichever one will pay the most, is my guess. Or get the biggest splash....itv maybe? Because they did the documentary.
Louise said…
HappyDays: In my opinion, Trudeau did not know at the time that they wanted to move to Canada, but I do see him having given then the go ahead before they made the announcement today.
KCM1212 said…
@kitkatkisses said

Honestly, with the Queen and Prince Philip being the ages they are, I hope the shock and stress of this isn't too much for them.

I worry about them as well, KitKat.

I hope it pisses them off so much that they are completely energized and focused on ridding the RF of this deadly enemy before they "move on".

That this bomb was intended to go off in the faces of the RF is very clear. To make an announcement like this without the blessing of The Queen is an act of war. I hope she responds with "deadly force". She can't allow the machinations of this gold digging grifter to be the end game of her long an illustrious career.

Lol. I would love to have the unedited comments of Philip (and Anne) tonight!


Glow W said…
They were trying Canada out for 8 weeks to see how they liked it. They probably did go to Toronto and elsewhere before ending up in Victoria. Trying them all on for size.
FrenchieLiv said…
@Nutty : I think she could set the deal with Ellen
Louise said…
KC Martin: I doubt if Philip could care less whether she stays or goes. In fact, he might prefer to see her go.
KCM1212 said…
The Markle family must be laughing their asses off.
Mimi said…
The RF is mighty powerful. It was such beyond crazy to think you can back HMQ into a corner and not expect some serious repercussioms!
Louise said…
KC Martin said...

"The Markle family must be laughing their asses off."

I don't know whether they are or not, but I am.
KCM1212 said…
Oh, Louise, I phrased that badly. I meant when the Queen and Philip move on (as it were). They will want this old digging witch dealt with before that sad day.

My apologies.
Ava C said…
Just as well you've all expressed yourselves so well and covered all bases as I'm speechless! Oh Your Majesty please please PLEASE do something to end this once and for all.
Mimi said…
wow, my grammar! and I haven’t even started celebrating yet!
KC said…

Blogger FrenchieLiv said...
@Nutty : I think she could set the deal with Ellen

YES, THIS! For the US market specifically....and Ellen may meet their fee hopes...she's supposed to be a friend....
Nutty Flavor said…
Good point about Ellen.

She's had a lot of bad publicity over the past few days - people talking about how she's "not nice" and difficult to deal with - so she needs a win pretty badly.
Mimi said…
If I were in charge I would make a very clean, quick, decisive decision regarding their threats/demands! None of this “negotiating” shit. YOU’RE OUT OF HERE.........NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Indo said…
Not another dime from the British public. It is ridiculous to expect citizens to fund them in ONE country, and now they look to be setting up house in two countries... Nope, not one cent more.

That doesn't even touch on the fact that this plan is the antithesis of being environmentally conscious....it IS all about how much green they can accumulate, I guess, based on their statement...not exactly the kind of green that they preach to the rest of the world.
KCM1212 said…
I thought Markles "professional income" primarily happened on a yacht.

Canada is a bit chilly for that.

But here come the pictures of Harry in his Speedos!
Fedde said…
Sounds to me like QEII and Charles put their foot down and demanded they fall in line or they'd be cut loose. MM didn't take too kindly to that and went ahead and posted the announcement, possibly without consulting Harry. However, I do believe he was involved in the preparations during their "vacation" and I think he's just as bad as she is. Sure she seems controlling and manipulative but if he was her victim, then there's no way he'd "dare" to tell her to turn the fuck around during Trooping of the Colour or mock her ability to speak French, to name two occasions. Stepping out and finding his voice maybe once, but if he was under her complete control the punishment would have been swift and he'd think twice about doing it again in public. This is the real Harry that the palace PR/ELF managed to spin into the popular party prince. MM most likely is the more dominant (and demanding) one of the two, but theirs is obviously a toxic yet mutual relationship.

Also agree with the previous comments that MM showing her hand before the negotiations have truly started is foolish. I just hope QEII and Charles will follow through and strip them of everything they can, including finances.

Even if MM had a "mere" $350K when she and Harry got married (rather than the ridiulous $5 million her fans claim), that's still more than enough "financial independence" for the majority of families. Why would they need additional money? It's not like MM (or Harry for that matter) has spent a dime of her own money since the wedding.

The 5% they claim to give up is shocking if the estimate of it being 2 million pounds is true. The other 95% is a whole lot of money to be given per year, especially when they barely work and either don't employ staff or ignore staff (and then why even bother hiring them?).
HappyDays said…
@ nutty: I think Oprah briefly did some work with the 60 Minutes Sunday magazine show here in the US a few years ago. 60 Minutes is generally more serious and possesses more gravitas, so I can see the Harkles with Oprah on that show to milk some respectability for themselves.

Meghan will attempt to get the 60 Minutes people to allow do her own spinoff show. It will be titled 69 Minutes.
Fairy Crocodile said…
The RF may play the old trick and make their financial settlement a subject to NDA. That'll go down well with the nation.

The Queen is old and lost her grip on things otherwise it would have never gone so far so quickly. I wonder if Wills will be a part of parting committee.
KCM1212 said…
@Happy Days said :


Meghan will attempt to get the 60 Minutes people to allow do her own spinoff show. It will be titled 69 Minutes.

For the win!!! Lol
Sandie said…
This is what they have said about the press (which they think they can control):

https://twitter.com/scobie/status/1214986277583511552/photo/1

Yep, Meghan's half siblings tried to warn everyone!

I wondered how they could stay in such a remote place for weeks on end (especially Meghan) and not get bored. They were hatching this plan (those thousands words of text were not done quickly) and smoking who knows what (I say the latter because this is crazy).
xxxxx said…
Piers Morgan has been scathing:
https://twitter.com/piersmorgan
I can hardly wait to read what Samantha, Tom Jr., Meg's Uncle, and Meg's other relatives say now (I always believed them and figured they knew her best). It is apparent why Meg was supposed to have sent Doria 9 million dollars to her now isn't it? She got the best of most people and will maybe continue to do so in the US among her supporters, including her celebrity friends (especially those who will want to land the 1st interview).

For those very vocal Meg supporters (@tatty, @drabredcarpet, etc...) what say you now that she is essentially saying a big FU to the Queen, the BRF and expecting to live on the UK dime?
Pantsface said…
oh F off news at ten - blaming the british media for their downfall - good old tom Bradby
Enty Lawyer says they have a Netflix deal>

https://twitter.com/entylawyer/status/1215026544222994434
Jenx said…
@pi ditto! I don't want to pay for the haz-beens!!! She's still an American afterall. Oprah can have her.

Torontopaper "BOOM"!

What the hell is "geographic balance"?

And ... who's going to pay for the media lawsuit now? Bwahahaha!
Humor Me said…
What a difference 24 hours makes! I said yesterday "this" (the Canada House visit) was a gamble and I was right! These two have been plotting this on their "break" (the irony). and are forcing the Royal Hand to fund them in a quiet manor while they get what they want - off the leash.
"Of course we will go off the Public Purse"
"Of course we will give up our titles - what is Sussex?"
"Of course WE will give up our HRHs"..........ah, there's the rub. MM/ PH know Charles will always fund them out of his love for his son. Of course they will still receive RPO - they will be part of the Ruling family as the second son in the future, and it will not do to have Harry penniless in the Commonwealth. "Poor Megs had to sell her wedding set just to afford the downpayment on a house in Canada."
And then there is the HRH - Harry is a blood Prince, at one time third in line to the Throne. As long as he is tied, oops , married to Megs, they both will be HRHs.
Wallis must be rolling in her grave.
I hope HMTQ and PP realize what this is and smack it with all the force and might of the Royal arm - out you go! I will always love you, but you crossed me. Don't let the door hit you on the leaving.
Portcitygirl said…
So. We all saw this coming.
Meghan has high political aspirations
and I could see HRC and Obama supporting her for political office in the US.
This does not bode well for HMTQ.
For MM to act this way, Harry has indeed offered up dirt on his family.
This makes me sad for HM. What must Prince William think?
KCM1212 said…
Apparently, they are going to try to make sure their media coverage is What they want too. It's under the Media tab of their website, but I can't get back on at the moment. Too much traffic.

Guess they finally broke the internet.

Hope The RF breaks it tomorrow.
none said…
Netflix. LOL. Their base of starstruck teenagers does not watch Netflix.
MustySyphone said…
In a divorce, MM would not be allowed any jewels with "historic importance". Her engagement wring was said to be made with two of Diana's diamonds. And now MeMe has been photographed two days in a row without said engagement ring. Hmmmmm
Louise said…
KC Martin: Indeed, she broke the internet. The part about the media coverage is hilarious... within a year or two of their leave, there won't be any media coverage at all.
Glow W said…
Entry changed one detail— the location— when he said they were house hunting . It wasn’t in LA. It was in Canada. Or maybe they started in LA and realized it wouldn’t work and had to be Canada.
Unknown said…
Meghan is out of her mind with this nonsense. I think she’s retaliating for the fallout after their documentary. Something big happened behind the scenes and this is her response. I think there was some looming deadline Meg is working off. Not sure what. Maybe projects she hoped for are falling through and she’s trying to salvage their future.

@Bravura brought up an excellent point about U.S. Citizenship and the Title of Nobility Clause, Article 1, Section 9 of the US Constitution. I am wondering if there are diplomatic issues that impact enforcement of it when dealing with royal marriages. It doesn’t look good if we tell nations we want to be friendly with that our citizens can’t marry them without rejecting their homeland. I think Meghan living in America and accepting Duchy monies is problematic and may test that clause. There is no precedence for such a scenario.
KitKatKisses said…
Re: Netflix. Yep, that wouldn't surprise me. But only to start off with--her unltimate goal would be her own media conglomerate, ala Oprah...a network, a magazine, and so forth. We just were reading about this the other day.
Glow W said…
@portcitygirl yes, we were told it was a working vacation on the foundation and that they would be taking meetings also. We discussed it, did we not? Or am I misremembering? There is so much out there lol, I can’t remember what I read or where
Guesser said…
I'm going with Oprah's BFF Gail getting the big interview. But it's tricky with legit news paying for interviews. They do have some sneaky ways around it though. Also,does anyone think they have blackmail material? How can they claim financial independence if they still take taxpayer's money?
Glow W said…
@guesser it would have to be on the level of (imagining) Andrew murdered someone. It would have to be earth shattering information.
luxem said…
First Interview - Gayle King? Ellen and Oprah have brands to protect. Gayle got the short end of the stick when the interview after Archie's birth and Frog Cott interiors never materialized.
Animal Lover said…
What are their business plans for an independent income? Selling merchandise, collecting fees for speeches? I read on another website, they are limiting access to the typical British press outlets. That will not stop negative reporting on them. Although splitting from the rest of the RF has been discussed for some months, the execution of this feels impulsive and disorganized.
Bravura. Problematic indeed if she continues to take UK money while resident in the US. Has she not learned her lesson from previous wrangling with the IRS?
Louise said…
Animal Lover: Giving speeches can be quite lucrative.. the Obamas both do it. There could also be a book deal.
Nutty Flavor said…
Thanks @Narc’s daughter

Enty’s Tweet:


They could have just said we wanted to sign the Netflix deal and the family (Charles & William) wouldn't let us because we aren't allowed to get paid. Will they get more or less than the $80M the Obama's got?
NeutralObserver said…
I wouldn't believe a word of the Harkle announcement. It was put out by Megs, obviously. We've discussed her apparently tenuous relationship with the truth at length here. She seems pretty delusional. Someone on this blog or elsewhere made a wonderful comment on how ridiculous Meg's all white royal wedding was for someone of her age & who had her somewhat lengthy & colorful minor league career. If she really loved Harry for himself, she wouldn't have needed that. In this instance, if she really loved Archie or Harry, she wouldn't be dragging them away from the family that has been so generous to them. This is sort of scary because Megs is throwing a hissy fit, & saying 'I quit.' It shows how self destructive she is. Best case scenario would have been to have quietly learned the ropes of royalty as Sophie Wessex did. Sophie has a beautiful imposing house, 2 lovely children, & the affection of the Queen & country. That ship has sailed, mostly because of Meg's incessant need for attention & adoration. Now, it's going to be up to the lawyers. I'm very curious as to whether or not Megs got one of her frozen embryos going. That will be interesting. It doesn't seem that she has, but we'll see.
HappyDays said…
There are some striking similarities: I wonder it they will send their titles back to the queen via the Fedex as Meghan did with her rings when she dumped her previous husband?

Dropping this like a bomb on HM and PC is akin to how Meghan dumped her last husband, this type of nasty behavior is typical of a narcissist, so it is not one bit surprising. Not consulting with HM or PC is incredibly disrespectful. Then unleashing this on them is the ultimate in petulant, selfish behavior.

It will further separate them from the RF and extinguish any bit of goodwill toward them that remained with the citizens of the UK. Which is what Meghan wants. Harry is just her follower.

I think HM should ask Parliament to remove their titles and give them the freedom they claim to want. You can’t be nice to a narcissist. They see it as a weakness to be exploited.
Pantsface said…
"finacially independent" :) :) :) go you, you middle aged people, big thumbs up for trying to become finacially independent at your age. True heroes. Are they having a laugh??
abbyh said…

Reading Omid's post of their news

They can still fulfill their work duties to the Queen but

They shouldn't have to participate in the family rota but they should get lots of money from the family.

Connecting with up and coming journalists - translation - someone who thinks they will get a really good scoop that will propel them up the ladder. Or specialist media for greater access (and must be credible).

The geographic division will allow them to raise their kid to appreciate the royal tradition he was born into?

Apparently the world has encouraged them to go on a limb like this (really? who, where, when?)


wowza

Just when I think their US tax situation wasn't complicated enough, they pull this out. Oh well, it may be much easier to snar her/them on something this way in the end.
Louise said…
She wouldn't earn as much as the Obamas, but it is still a good sore of income. I have a friend who does it and Trudeau did it before he entered politics when he was still a teacher, but the "son of" an earlier Prime Minister. He used to charge charities a fee for showing up to a fundraiser. I could see Smirkle doing the same thing.
Glow W said…
Motivational speaking. Bruce Jenner made a ton of money doing it.
Pantsface said…
Got to love an empowered woman who seeks to be finacially indepedent at the age of 42
Marie said…
I looked at the Titles of Nobility clause people were mentioning. It doesn't seem like it would affect or apply to her. She's not a politician or holding any public office, and the Amendment to strip citizenship when given a title by a foreign government was never ratified by enough states. The interior designer/socialite Alex Miller married into the von Furstenberg family and was styled as Her Serene Highness Princess blah blah and remained a full American citizen as far as I can remember. She still kind of uses her von Furstenberg name, although technically is remarried.
Glow W said…
Queen deeply upset and Charles and William incandescent with rage
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/10701694/queen-deeply-upset-harry-meghan-markles-exit-civil-war/
none said…
@tatty He goes by Caitlyn now.
Bardsey said…
All the comments on twitter are driving me mad. I never comment on RF issues on my account so it’s interesting seeing people come out of the woodwork, but my God are their opinions horrid. Let us not forget that Harry released a statement calling his family the family she never had. At what point are we allowed to say Meghan is the common denominator in all these broken families? Can someone please point to the racism that supposedly drove her out?

I so desperately want the RF to release the receipts. Every nasty piece of work is dragging them for being Neanderthals racists today. They’re losing legitimacy in the eyes of the people. Stop allowing her to lead you all around by the nose! You can’t just cut the purse strings, you have to allow someone to fully leak the details of her atrocious behavior. Goodness. I’m starting to suspect she really is a plant designed to nuke the RF from within and they’re going right along with it.
MustySyphone said…
The Harkles have no talent or influence to peddle so its hard for me to believe that their foundation will be as "enriching" as the Clinton foundation was.
Glow W said…
Oh and “civil war” ^^^^^^^^
Self-help books? And how to help yourself to everything within reach.
Marie said…
the speeches for sure. Harry already tested the water with his Italy summit (the barefoot speech). And I'm sure they'll skim from, if not milk heavily, the foundation and maybe even the Travalyst venture.
Glow W said…
@holly, it was when she was Bruce Jenner. Kaitlin did not do the motivational speaking.
KCM1212 said…
I suspect Prince Charles has been keeping these two in line by threatening to cut off funding. Hence the good behavior at the Remembrance Day functions. The "financial independence "
emphasis of the announcement and website seems like a coded FU
especially for him.

"Thanks for walking me down the aisle, Pa! "
Humor Me said…
The couple stands to loose $8 million pounds a year if they give up the titles etc. No amount of biographies and speeches will make up for that loss over the time frame of their lives. This is Edward VIII again, begging for money from Elizabeth (this poor women - first her uncle, now her grandson), then his dad, then his brother, then his nephew.

Smirkle on her own is a one trick pony - "Lady Hamilton" indeed.
none said…
@tatty There's only one of them.
ALICE FRANCE said…
Harry brought a Trojan horse into the royal family. So much damage in less than two years. Harry portrays a weak, submissive and impressionable man. The Sussex saga is reality TV. It's pathetic, pitiful and vulgar...
luxem said…
I wonder if the public reprimand of Jennifer Meyer was what brought this to a head? The RF made it known they were not going to allow merching on the backs of the Royal Family, thus squashing Meghan's money-making opportunities with Jennifer (and others) and causing embarrassment for both.
none said…
@ALICE FRANCE. Perfectly stated.
Britannia said…
They never WERE senior Royals.
CatEyes said…
@Unknown

Your comment has to be sarcastic as Megs has never once in her life ever been a financially independent woman not now, not ever, and I am willing to bet not never. She is a leech off every man that has been in her life, starting with Daddy, 1st husband (Italian guy), Treavor, Corey and now Harry and all the men who hed a casting couch. She makes women look bad.
Glow W said…
Ah! The Sun forced the issue. They had to release the statement to get ahead of the story: “But when Harry and Meghan found out The Sun was breaking the story, they wanted to rush out a statement immediately.”
none said…
@tatty. Well that is quite interesting about The Sun. Do you have a link?
Fairy Crocodile said…
Re Netflix deal. They are still working royals and any commercial deal is out of the question. If Netflix is prepared to wait until royal lawyers agree every detail which may take months - good luck. They are likely to be bound by restrictions on discussing their life as royals too.

Every day the message will sink deeper into the public mind that they are not "true" royals any more and people will lose interest.

Neither Harry nor Megs realize they are not news in themselves and the monarchy is one true power behind their celebrity.
Animal Lover said…
I can see a book deal or perhaps something else in media. However are they that popular in the US and Canada to make a lot of money? Neither of them are on the Obamas'level. While the British press, in particular the tabloids has stories on them almost daily, I don't see it in the US press, granted I don't read People or Us magazine. The NYTimes just had an article on the split and may of the commentators mentioned a racist press hounding Meghan. I started reading the Mirror which is a tabloid with a "liberal" or Labor perspective and the commentators there are not so crazy about the Sussexes. My opinion is the press coverage hasn't been racist but sometimes critical of the Sussexes, some social media postings have been racist but then some Sussex supporters have had very negative things to say about the Cambridges.
I don't recall any competition or popularity contest between the two bothers occurring until Harry married Meghan.
Last thought about Harry and Meghan relocating part time to Canada; in the recovery community people are warned about "geographical cures". The point being that wherever you go there you are. If you are the problem, then the problem will follow.
Glow W said…
@holly oh sorry!!! https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/10701694/queen-deeply-upset-harry-meghan-markles-exit-civil-war/
Debra said…
Oh, I think this is step two of the eventual divorce. Step one was getting everyone to hate Meghan (and she handled that part all on her own). This is going to be entertaining...
Glow W said…
@luxem the sun says it was the photo of the 3 heirs and the queen that did it.
HappyDays said…
No matter how much money Meghan gets from Netflix, Apple, or anyone else, it will never be enough. I can easily see her being like many former high-profile stars, musicians, athletes, and lottery winners who get oodles of money, spend it all on a lavish lifestyle, and end up with nothing.

Sad to see Harry so easily led by his nose to trade away the people who truly love him for a few dollars and fleeting fame.
Pantsface said…
@catseyes, yes it was sarcastic lol, i was finacially independant from 16 years old, ok I havent been to soho house and don't wear designer labels (except from charity shop) but who cares, I am my own person. Must be so stressful trying to be somene that you're not
Nutty Flavor said…
@Bardsley

I agree about the sudden influx of Meg defenders on Twitter, but I also don’t think Twitter represents society as a whole, as the UK and US elections showed.

The low TV ratings for the Sussex TV specials are a better indication of their public support.
octobergirl said…
From the Daily Mail : The Queen's fury as Harry and Meghan quit: Royal couple did NOT tell Her Majesty, Prince Charles or William who all learned of their decision to step back from the TELEVISION as aides complain about being 'stabbed in the back'

One exasperated aide said: ‘People had bent over backwards for them. They were given the wedding they wanted, the house they wanted, the office they wanted, the money they wanted, the staff they wanted, the tours they wanted and had the backing of their family. What more did they want?’

Another royal source said: ‘It’s deeply unfair to the Queen who doesn’t deserve to be treated this way. It is a shoddy way to treat her. The family understands that they want to do something different and is perfectly willing to help them. People are just devastated.’

The Mail has been told the couple ‘secretly plotted’ their decision during their stay in Canada, even conspiring to create a new website independent of the Royal Family and ready to launch it when they returned. This was without the knowledge of their own loyal UK-based press team.

‘The level of deceit has been staggering and everyone from the top of the royal household to the bottom feels like they have been stabbed in the back,’ one source said.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7866007/Harry-Meghan-step-senior-royals-financially-independent.html
Maggie said…
@Bardsey - I think you may be right. The Windsors have been backed into a corner and won't be playing nicely. We can be sure that they and the press have a lot of dirt on the two of them and the brakes will be off.
Nutty Flavor said…
It’s Shakespearen. What a drama.
luxem said…
Hi @tatty - if I were Meghan/Meghan's PR, I would say the photo did it because that would create a sympathetic response by people who believe the Harkles have been treated unfairly by the RF. It plays into their victim mentality. Given their expressed desire in making money and becoming "financially independent", I think the reason is much closer to seeing the RF clamp down on their merching. However, it could be all the above and more (something with Archie as others have stated?)
Miggy said…
I can't keep up with the comments on here but I have only 2 things to say:

1) I feel dreadfully sorry for Her Majesty to have been back stabbed like this by her grandson and his grifter wife Markle. At her age this is the last thing she needed. If anything happens to Her Maj or PP due to the stress caused by these two idiots, the British public will never forgive them.

2) I REALLY look forward to the backlash they are now going to get from the press... and it's coming!

BRING IT ON!!!
cutmasterC said…
Stupid question here: So will they still keep their titles? Also, what job skills does Harry possess and what is a "workstream"? Thanks!
Nutty Flavor said…
@Maggie

It’ll be interesting to see what come out. Archie’s true origins? The actual Meg and Harry dating timeline? Drug use? Merching? There’s just so much to spill.
HappyDays said…
Their alleged “friends” will probably have to choose a side in what amounts to a divorce of sorts.

Some examples of the “Which side will they choose?” dilemma:

Elton: He didn’t receive his knighthood from Meghan or Harry. He will have to deal with PC and PW after the queen retires or passes on if he continues to cozy up with the Harkles.

George and Amal: Amal practices law in the UK. Being on the wrong side of the RF could hinder her future business.
Nutty Flavor said…
@Cutmaster, they would like to keep their titles, but that is unresolved at the moment.

Great insight, @HappyDays.
Humor Me said…
@MustySyphone - Meghan without her engagement ring (two diamonds which belonged to Diana).
"undivided interest" aka Harry and Wills as to his late mother's property. Hand it over! We will pay the cost of the diamonds only!

that's why I said Megs had to hock the rings to pay for the new house in Canada!
NeutralObserver said…
@Nutty 'They could have just said we wanted to sign the Netflix deal and the family (Charles & William) wouldn't let us because we aren't allowed to get paid. Will they get more or less than the $80M the Obama's got?'

My guess is a lot less, although Netflix has spent money on a lot of dubious things recently. The Obamas, & more importantly, the advisors they listen to, are much more apt to come up with interesting & meaningful projects. I think your suggestion of QVC sales are much more in Meg's wheelhouse. The Obamas have warmth, charm & insight in their interviews. Megs & Harry's SA interview, Yikes! As Roger Ailes once said about Paula Zahn, 'a dead raccoon would get better ratings.'
Humor Me said…
@Nutty - you are so correct! this is epic ! I never thought i would see the likes of 1936 again in the life.
@Miggy, ‘2) I REALLY look forward to the backlash they are now going to get from the press... and it's coming!’

I’ve been watching the news here in the UK. I just saw two well known journalists have more than a few pops at the Sussex’s. They brought up everything people have been saying and a whole lot more. The headlines already are no way favourable towards them. If The Sussex’s think they’ve had bad and unfair press before this announcement, then the gates of Hell has been unleashed on them now, and all of their own doing.
cutmasterC said…
Thank you Nutty! I really hope they aren't allowed to keep the titles. I think it would cut into M's merching to not be able to label things as being used by, worn by, etc. the Duchess of Sussex. I also don't think they are worthy of the titles based on their behavior towards the BRF.
HappyDays said…
Their alleged “friends” will probably have to choose a side in what amounts to a divorce of sorts.

Some examples of the “Which side will they choose?” dilemma:

Elton: He didn’t receive his knighthood from Meghan or Harry. He will have to deal with PC and PW after the queen retires or passes on if he continues to cozy up with the Harkles.

George and Amal: Amal practices law in the UK. Being on the wrong side of the RF could hinder her future business.
Lady Luvgood said…
How hurt HMTQ PC and PW must be, good job Meggy
She treated this family just like the one she never had, H
Hope someone asks the little lamb if she is ok, never sparing a thought for Harry’s grandparents who are in their 90s
KitKatKisses said…
From the DM article: Another royal source said: ‘It’s deeply unfair to the Queen who doesn’t deserve to be treated this way. It is a shoddy way to treat her. The family understands that they want to do something different and is perfectly willing to help them. People are just devastated.’

The Mail has been told the couple ‘secretly plotted’ their decision during their stay in Canada, even conspiring to create a new website independent of the Royal Family and ready to launch it when they returned. This was without the knowledge of their own loyal UK-based press team.

‘The level of deceit has been staggering and everyone from the top of the royal household to the bottom feels like they have been stabbed in the back,’ one source said.


https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7866007/Harry-Meghan-step-senior-royals-financially-independent.html

No one in the palace must read any comments then, because people have been saying at least since the engagement that this would happen. This is Meghan's (or any abusive person's) MO: you isolate your victim from their family and friends and you cut them off, making them solely dependent on you. People have have been shouting it from the roof tops. I bet not one of us here is surprised.

***The question that remains is***:
How do you say you are leaving "the royal family" and then go tout yourself as royals? Royals of what, exactly? Harry is only a prince because his father is a prince, but if he disavows that, what is he a prince of?

Also I wonder if Amal is going to represent them. I guarantee you they've lawyered
up already.

Initial Twitter comments might seem pro H and M, but public sentiment will not remain that way.
lizzie said…
@Disgusted, Turnbridge Wells,

It doesn't matter re: the IRS where M lives if she's a US citizen. Taxable income is taxable income.

@Marie,

You are correct about titles. As discussed in the last thread, American citizens can hold titles. Naturalized citizens give them up (probably to show allegiance to the US.)

While the best known actress to marry a prince is probably Grace Kelly, Rita Hayworth married Prince Aly Khan and had a daughter before divorcing. *Princess* Yasmin Aga Khan was born in Switzerland but also holds American citizenship. Lee Radziwill, Jackie Kennedy's sister, married Prince StanisÅ‚aw Albrecht RadziwiÅ‚Å‚, a Polish prince. She was known as *Princess* Lee Radziwill. I believe their children also held titles.
Miggy said…
@raspberryRuffle,

Exactly... and they deserve everything they now get. Ungrateful, spiteful, idiots.

This from Richard Palmer a short while ago-
"Harry and Meghan have dropped a bombshell on their family, alienated many Brits and others who admired them initially, and lost the support of some lifelong fans across the pond. Expect much more criticism like this in the coming days and weeks."
NeutralObserver said…
'Workstream' is American corporate human resources jargon. This gobbledy-gook keeps growing & changing. In a couple of years it'll be 'Workproduct' or 'Workflow' or something. All those expensively educated MBAs have to earn their keep.
Ava C said…
One tiny side-issue mentioned in the press today is that if Harry ends up out of the succession and therefore Archie too, Prince Andrew moves up two places.

I know everyone dismisses the possibility of Harry/Archie etc. ever being in that position, but I will continue to worry about it while the Cambridges continue to travel together. Just think, four heirs flew in one plane to Balmoral this summer. Both Harry and Prince Andrew would spell the end of the BRF, and Archie has far too many questions hanging over his blameless little head. The back-end of the BRF is a total shambles and the front-end seems paralysed.
HappyDays said…
cutmasterC said...
Thank you Nutty! I really hope they aren't allowed to keep the titles. I think it would cut into M's merching to not be able to label things as being used by, worn by, etc. the Duchess of Sussex. I also don't think they are worthy of the titles based on their behavior towards the BRF.

@cutmaster: I too hope they do not keep any of their titles. No title means no Meghan. Her entire life is based on being a royal and it’s the only reason she stalked Harry. She’d dump Harry in a New York baby shower minute. Then Harry could crawl back to The Firm and probably get his titles restored after an appropriate mea culpa to the RF and the citizens of the UK. He’d have custody of Archie and can have more children with his next wife. This would be chalked up as a really bad starter marriage for Harry.

Without the title, Meghan and Sussex Royal becomes a useless joke. She might play the victim and try to keep it going, but it would be a useless effort if there is no Duke or Duchess of Sussex.
Marie said…
@lizzie Thanks for the clarification.

@kitkatkissies I enjoy how that royal source actually uses the word "deceit." Exceptionally strong language. I hope they start looking at Meghan's history more closely. Someone capable of such deceit has had many years to practice.

There's been talk on Twitter that Harry becoming at age of 21 a counsillor of State under the Regency Act of 1937 (taking over from Prince Edward) is partially why it's complicated to just throw him out of the royal family officially or let him choose to step back unofficially without the Queen's consent beforehand or even let him spend so much time living abroad. I'm not at all familiar with this though. Seems like Meghan and dim Harry was also unaware when she made that statement to step back as senior royals. Also, Alastair Bruce links a photo of tomorrow's Times article(s). Full two-page spread.

Miggy said…
The Daily Telegraph cartoon:

https://twitter.com/MattCartoonist/status/1215009308066357248
abbyh said…

Animal Lover

The point being that wherever you go there you are. If you are the problem, then the problem will follow.

How true, how true.

I don't agree with the staffer who said they got the house they wanted. I remember it as she/they wanted to be in the castle at Windsor, not outside it. I agree that there was a huge level of deceit.

If this is truly the case for modernizing the monarch (delivering this news via tv), God help us all.

Nutty Flavor said…
@AvaC, I also hate it when the Cambridge’s travel together.

Fergie once said that a psychic told her that Beatrice would someday be Queen.
Fairy Crocodile said…
Can't believe it. A** kissers already call Harry the "jewel in the royal crown" and "the most popular royal" and lament the huge damage his departure will do to the royal family.

What a load of bovine waste product. Once they are gone their fun club will dry out like a spit in the sun.
Jennifer said…
"it is with your encouragement, particularly over the last few years, that we feel prepared to make this adjustment."
Lmfao!!!
Ava C said…
@Lizzie, I've read a lot about Lee Radziwill and have always understood that she had no actual right to be referred to as 'princess' as her husband had had to renounce his title (which of course doesn't take away from the point about Americans being allowed to hold titles). She was fond of the title and used it, and people just went along with it. Of course that must also have included official invitations from the Kennedy White House, where at least one event was held in her honour, but that would have something to do with her sister ... :-)
Megan said…
Longtime lurker who is finally jumping into the discussions here!

I know this is a minor detail, but as I was reading the announcement earlier, I saw something that confirmed for me that Meghan wrote it. It was her use of the word “while” - “We intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the Royal Family and world to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen.” A Briton would have said “whilst.”

Unrelated to that, I am embarrassed to share a name with that woman. At least I had it first.
PaulaMP said…
I hope the Royals, the press, and the extended Markle family spill their guts and tell us all the dirt
Just have to say, before I''m off to make dinner... I feel this is going to end very badly for Harry. Very badly.
Now THIS is an interesting Twitter account>

https://twitter.com/lilavarisi
Nutty Flavor said…
LOL, @Megan.

My prediction for the first tabloid revenge story to drop: the real story of Frogmore Cottage. What’s inside that building, if anything?

I’m sure the Royal Reporters already know the answer.



Glow W said…
@ava c it happened to Prince Phillip’s sister and her family
CookieShark said…
I showed more respect when I left my job at the pizza place.

KitKatKisses said…
Skippy keeps insisting Harry is "not in on this" and that he would never betray his grandmother like this.

I feel badly for her. To accept what looks like reality would make her feel very betrayed.
none said…
@A Narc's Daughter...The Twitter account. Wow.
Artemisia19 said…
There is some serious bridge burning going on here. I'm actually stunned at how far this has gone.
Vince said…
Twitter is a fake environment, and easily manipulated by paid trolls. I would be suspicious of anything I read there.

Hiding behind pretexts of why the Harkles were "forced" into this move is not going to hold water for very long, IMO. And once the complete cash out starts in earnest, the reason for this move will only become clearer to the North America public.

There is a small audience for this duo, much less than they think. They can still make a lot of money from fools, but the adoration and celebrity that Meghan wants will be fleeting, at best, in my opinion.

lizzie said…
@AvaC,

You could be right about Lee. I was just trying to think of people who weren't Grace K! And yes, I do believe the WH used the title.

I posted this on the last thread but it's a simple read for people who didn't see it before https://m.irontontribune.com/2009/02/28/can-american-citizens-hold-royal-titles/

@Marie,

Andrew is currently a counselor of state. Not sure if stepping back is the issue but not living in the UK is. Here's some info.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Counsellor_of_State
Fifi LaRue said…
Nutty, how much money do you think Fergie continued to give the psychic after that reading? LOL! One of the many reasons she was continually broke.

If Markle and Harry are going to support themselves independently, that means Markle has found a way to get a hold of Harry's inheritance. She's convinced him that his family does not love or support him, and so he will be willing to part with his money to support Meghan in the style to which she's entitled.

Markle and Harry are not interesting, intelligent, charismatic, nor do they have delightful personalities. They will never get a gigantic Netflix deal, maybe a minor deal.

And, finally, Bea and Edo can breathe a sigh of relief that Markle will definitely not be at their wedding, and trying to upstage them with some kind of nonsense.
Glow W said…
Guardian tomorrow: https://mobile.twitter.com/hendopolis/status/1215033886595522560
Ava C said…
Well I haven't cancelled my Daily Telegraph subscription yet and am now hesitating as I'm enjoying the new cooler note to their H&M coverage since the bombshell. Somehow their detached, clinical tone is more satisfying than DM's more obvious approach.

I liked the Daily Telegraph's exact wording that H&M would "work towards financial independence". Exactly the phrase DM readers use for their failure-to-launch, expensive offspring who are being given another chance from the bank of Mum and Dad, with zero expectation of success. Another article notes that it is "not quite clear" how they will move to this position of independence.

Very few people believe in Meghan's own millions. They have seen her spending at outrageous levels - I'll never get over that £90K biscuit-coloured caftan - and know that she'd get through Harry's millions very easily. Something like that Vancouver Island retreat, if she is aiming at that level, would take a third of his fortune, and in any case I understand he is not allowed to access his capital like that.

They won't manage financially in the longer term without the BRF's continued support. They won't manage at all without titles. It seems as if the only hold they have over the Queen is the old pissing inside or outside the tent analogy, but after today, I think the Queen will decide she has nothing to lose.
KCM1212 said…
The attorneys for the RF better order in pizza. It's going to be a long night.

Please, will someone clarify? I keep seeing the phrase "senior royals". Were they ever "senior?

And why would Markle and Harry get bent out of shape overcharge Four Heirs photo? Didn't they recreate that scene in a fairly regular basis? If Harry was surprised he is not in line for the throne, he is dinner than we hear.

Although it does show what jealousy, a harpy hissing into ones esr, and isolation can accomplish.




Nutty Flavor said…
@Rabbit

I think Bea and Edo are going to have to get married at Hackney Town Hall. The British public is definitely not up for another Royal wedding.
Glow W said…
@KC I’ think if you have a HRH you are a senior royal?
@KC, ‘Please, will someone clarify? I keep seeing the phrase "senior royals". Were they ever "senior?’

They are senior royals, Harry is the son of a future monarch, so Meghan via marriage is also a senior royal. I would go into more detail but it’s almost midnight here in the UK, and past my bedtime. :o)
Shaggy said…
This comment has been removed by the author.
DesignDoctor said…
This comment from MankyMeg from Guardian Twitter rings true:

They were never senior anything. She is a woman with a shady and filthy past who found a halfwit prince. She is vile, we know that but the way he’s testing his own brother, grandmother and the RF who gave him a privileged life is plain obscene
CatEyes said…
@KitKatKisses

Well, there are a few posters here that swore up and down just yesterday that Meg and Harry were devoted loyal subjects working hard for the Queen (now they are pretending they didn't say so) so I give Skippy a pass (at least she was right about Megs thorough and through while the others here weren't. lol
KCM1212 said…
Thanks, @Tatty, @Raspberry Ruffle and @Unknown!
Now it makes more sense
DesignDoctor said…
I was incorrect It is Neil Henderson's Twitter account with the Guardian front page.
Animal Lover said…
Maybe they will be Instagram Influencers. I wonder if she will still pursue her lawsuit against the MOS or if leaving the RF is a white flag?
Glow W said…
Dan Wooton an hour ago on twitter:

A source has told me the couple will now also work on commercial products, explaining: “Make no mistake, Harry and Meghan intend to make a lot of money and start taking commercial deals as soon as possible.”
Ozmanda said…
@Liver Bird - completely agree..the quick and official response by the palace speaks volumes. I think they are done with these antics and things are going to get very real for them.
Shaggy said…
This comment has been removed by the author.
Animal Lover said…
Page Six of the NY Post is going to town on Harry and Meghan. They have a cartoon of Harry in his underwear drinking a Pabst Blue Ribbon from the can. Megan is wearing a housecoat with pink curlers in her hair.
none said…
https://harrymarkle.wordpress.com/2020/01/08/the-sweaty-sussex-showdown-begins/

MustySyphone said…
@PaulaMP-from your lips to God's ears.

also:
1. UK is in austere times. Considering the state of NHS, lack of police, etc could Cringe and Ginge be any more tone deaf (than they were in SA)? Apparently so.

2. Time for Pa to say "I love you son, you're always welcomed at Christmas, you can live on your $35 million without help from me, see ya, don't forget to write"

3. Harry, you're going to h-e-double hockey sticks. What you've just done to your Grandmother and Grandfather is inexcusable. Hope the sex is/was worth it.

4. I'm betting they'll merch the h-e-double hockey sticks out of Archie. He's nothing but a living breathing "workstream".

5. I've got to go to the store and get more wine and popcorn. Be right back!
Humor Me said…
Folks - especially those speaking of H&M being senior royals - this clip (if allowed, Nutty), is of Charles putting H&M in their place at at exhibit, curtesy of "Celt News"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okPIf_A2kwQ

You can clearly here Charles tell the two they are not expected to advance, and where to go. The look on Harry and pregnant Megs faces are priceless. They showed up expecting to be included.
So they have known their place for a long time despite the duo continually forcing the issue.
KCM1212 said…
And design doctor, I hear you. This is as shabby a deal as I could ever imagine. "Vile" is a perfect description.
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