Meghan Markle is reportedly supporting Prince Harry amid ongoing efforts toward a possible royal reconciliation, following a prolonged rift between the Sussexes and the Royal Family.
King Charles is said to have maintained openness toward his younger son in recent times, fuelling speculation that a return to some form of royal engagement could still be possible, although no timeline has been confirmed.
Against this backdrop, a former royal aide has reflected on the initial excitement within Buckingham Palace when Prince Harry and Meghan’s engagement was announced, suggesting there was optimism about her role within the monarchy.
Grant Harrold, former butler to King Charles, recalled in an interview with LadBible that there was considerable enthusiasm at the time, with many viewing Meghan’s arrival as the beginning of a “new chapter” for the Royal Family.
“At the very beginning, everybody was so excited and thrilled,” he said, adding that there was a strong sense she could become a successful working royal.
However, he noted that the realities of royal life may have differed from expectations, particularly for someone coming from outside the institution. He described the Royal Household as “quite regimented” and “quite strict,” with demanding schedules and responsibilities.
“There is a fun side to it, but there are quite long hours and it’s quite full-on, so I think maybe it wasn’t what she quite imagined,” he said.
Harrold also reflected on Prince Harry’s decision to step back from royal duties, saying he still finds it difficult to fully understand, while acknowledging Harry’s previous enjoyment of his role.