Meghan Markle is reportedly convinced that she and Prince Harry can create a “self-contained royal family” away from the direct control of the British monarchy.
The idea is said to be part of the couple’s long-term thinking as they continue to navigate their strained relationship with Harry’s relatives. However, royal experts have warned that such a move could be seen as a serious overstep, especially by Prince William.
For now, reports suggest Harry and Markle are not expecting a quick resolution to the family feud. Instead, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are said to be playing the long game as they continue shaping their public life outside the palace.
Meghan Markle Eyes A ‘Parallel Royal Family’ With Harry
Markle is reportedly growing more convinced that she and Prince Harry can maintain their royal status without the institutional backing of Buckingham Palace.
According to OK! Magazine, sources claim the Duchess sees their recent four-day trip to Australia as proof that they can position themselves as a “self-contained royal family” from their California home.
The former “Suits” actress reportedly believes the trip gave them the perfect launchpad to carve out a space as a modern, standalone alternative to the traditional monarchy.
An insider told the outlet that Meghan is persuaded she and Harry can operate like an independent royal entity, enjoying the visibility and privileges of royal life while doing things on their own terms.
Meghan Branded ‘Deluded’ Over Royal Plans
Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Harry and Markle have carried out several unofficial royal-style trips, including visits to Nigeria, Colombia, and, most recently, Australia.
Although Harry and Markle reportedly framed their recent trip Down Under around charitable work and business objectives, critics have accused them of using the visit to strengthen their brand and generate income.
Still, Markle is said to be unfazed by the backlash, and the Sussexes reportedly believe the Australia trip was a success. The couple is now said to see it as a test run for a new public-facing strategy. However, the source claimed the Duchess is being unrealistic, adding that she is “totally deluded and consumed with ego.”
Experts Warn Harry And Meghan Markle’s Plans Could Backfire
It remains to be seen how Prince Harry and Meghan Markle intend to execute their reported plans for a “parallel royal family,” but experts have warned that the move could invite serious pushback from the monarchy.
Some royal watchers have suggested that if the couple continues to operate in a royal-style capacity while pursuing independent commercial ventures, it could reignite debate over their Sussex titles.
The issue dates back to the 2020 Sandringham Summit, where Queen Elizabeth II firmly rejected Harry and Meghan’s hopes of becoming “half in, half out” royals. The late monarch made it clear that they could not continue as working members of the royal family while also pursuing income-generating ventures on their own terms.
“They are pushing the envelope and making it much more difficult for reconciliation to happen,” Sally Bedell Smith, author of the “Royals Extra” Substack, said.
Prince William Reportedly Sees Sussex Plan As ‘Non-Negotiable’
Prince William has remained firm in keeping his distance from him and Meghan Markle, and their latest reported plans may only deepen the divide.
Although Harry’s relationship with King Charles is said to have improved in recent months, William reportedly remains wary of his younger brother and is believed to view him as “totally untrustworthy.”
Ailsa Anderson, Queen Elizabeth II’s former press secretary, said Harry and Meghan’s recent decisions are unlikely to improve relations between the brothers.
“What Harry and Meghan are doing is a non-negotiable for William,” Anderson told PEOPLE. “He wouldn’t countenance any acceptance of it.”
Harry And Meghan Markle Are Reportedly United In Dealing With His Family
When Harry visited Ukraine several weeks ago, he rejected the idea that he is simply a “non-working royal,” insisting that he will “always be part of the royal family.”
His remarks came amid reports suggesting Meghan Markle prefers to keep some distance from the royal fold. However, sources claim the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are approaching the matter as a united front.
According to insiders, Meghan allows Harry to take the lead in navigating his relationship with his family, but that does not mean the issue is causing tension between them.
“Meghan lets him lead on all royal matters,” a close source told PEOPLE. “But it would never put them at odds, they’re on the same team.”