Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have experienced a tumultuous couple of months. Their spokesperson referred to a car chase with paparazzi in NYC as "near-catastrophic" in May. In June, their multimillion-dollar Spotify deal unexpectedly ended. Moreover, on July 27, Harry suffered a setback in his lawsuit against a British tabloid when a U.K. judge dismissed his claims of voicemail hacking. A source in We's latest cover story describes it as a "challenging time."
However, amidst rumors of the stress impacting their relationship and even speculation of an impending divorce, reliable sources confirm that the five-year marriage between the Sussexes remains resilient. According to insiders, the couple presents a united front, viewing it as Harry and Meghan against all odds.
Harry, aged 38, and Meghan, aged 42, had grand ambitions when they departed from their royal responsibilities in 2020 and moved from England to California. However, their efforts to make a splash in Hollywood have not quite materialized. Despite Harry's memoir, Spare, achieving bestseller status in January, their Netflix docuseries, Harry & Meghan, which was well received in December 2022, failed to secure a nomination for an Emmy. Additionally, Meghan's podcast titled "Archetypes" was notably short-lived.
Continued public criticism has been highly challenging for the couple, as noted by the first source. They faced accusations of exaggerating their car chase incident in May, and Bill Simmons, the head of podcast innovation and monetization at Spotify, branded them as "grifters" when the announcement about their partnership was made in June. Furthermore, Jeremy Zimmer, the CEO of United Talent Agency, implied in an interview that Meghan lacks audio talent or any kind of talent. The first source highlights that Harry and Meghan struggle to keep track of the constant negative remarks aimed at them. Despite their best efforts to rise above it, the relentless criticism inevitably affects them emotionally.
Amidst the relentless scrutiny, the couple has managed to maintain unity and support for one another. As the second source affirms, Harry and Meghan have consistently faced challenges and strife from various angles throughout their time together. However, they confront these obstacles together, relying on each other for strength. This unwavering support from one another has always been a fundamental aspect of their relationship.
A judge recently dismissed Harry’s claims that a British newspaper hacked his phone to retrieve personal information. Hugo Philpott/UPI/Shutterstock
Tension arises at home primarily over minor issues. According to the source, both Harry and Meghan have limited work commitments currently, which leads to feelings of isolation. Harry particularly misses his friends from the U.K., as his summers there were filled with travel, weddings, and exploration, unlike his experiences in California where he has made new acquaintances but they don't compare to his London crew. The source also mentions that Harry and Meghan spend a significant amount of time together, practically 24/7.
Meghan, on the other hand, has a strong support system close by, including her mom, Doria Ragland, and her longtime friend and former Suits co-star, Abigail Spencer. However, Harry remains distant from his brother, Prince William, and his father, King Charles III. The second source reveals that their communication is infrequent. Additionally, Harry's ongoing court battle against News Group Newspapers, which recently received permission to proceed with his suit related to illegal information-gathering, has the potential to expose more private matters from the palace. The source concludes by stating that William and Charles desire for Harry to refrain from revealing further family secrets.
The couple left the Ms. Foundation 2023 Women of Vision Awards in NYC in May and were subsequently accused of exaggerating their account of a “nearly catastrophic car pursuit” after the event. MEGA
Amidst growing discussions about a potential separation between Harry and Meghan, the couple has chosen to maintain a low profile. According to an insider, their activities include going on hikes with their dogs, working out together, and spending time in the garden with their children. Their leisurely evenings are often spent at exclusive venues like San Vicente Bungalows and Soho House.
In addition, Harry and Meghan are currently strategizing their next moves. Another source reveals that they are taking time to regroup and are focused on expanding their presence in the entertainment industry. Meghan is contemplating relaunching her lifestyle website, The Tig, which she had closed down after her engagement to Harry. Meanwhile, Harry is preparing to head to Africa for a Netflix documentary. The couple also plans to travel to Germany for Harry's Invictus Games in September. Furthermore, they are considering the idea of once again relocating, this time to Malibu, as they are actively searching for a house in the area.
Meghan and Harry are “regrouping” on the professional front, a source says. INSTARimages.com
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are refraining from acknowledging any speculation surrounding their divorce. According to the first source, Harry and Meghan are of the belief that engaging with these unfounded rumors only amplifies their reach. While their relationship may face obstacles, they are fully dedicated to ensuring the success of their marriage.