The Queen Just Called an Emergency Meeting With the Whole Family
"It is complicated."
The Queen has reportedly called an emergency meeting with all four of the royal households—Meghan and Harry, William and Kate, Prince Charles and Camilla, and the Queen herself, with husband Prince Philip—to discuss the announcement of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's decision to "step back as senior members of the Royal Family."
"The Queen has convened a meeting of all four royal households and 'tasked' them with coming up with a 'workable' future role for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex within 'days not weeks,'" said royal reporter Rebecca English.
The meeting could focus on funding for the couple, their team, where they'll live, and what kind of roles they'll fulfill on behalf of the Queen. Alternatively, it could just be a whole lot of yelling. Who can say!
Either way, it's no wonder the Queen called an emergency meeting to try and get all her royal ducks in a row. On Wednesday afternoon, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex shared the shocking news via Instagram. The pair explained they came to this decision because they felt it was the best for their son, Archie, and it would help them focus on their work with causes and nonprofits.
A post shared by The Duke and Duchess of Sussex (@sussexroyal)
A photo posted by on
This announcement came as a shock to royal fans everywhere (hello, me!). It also came as a shock to the royal family, it seems! Just hours later, Queen Elizabeth issued in a statement essentially contradicting the Sussex's own statement and saying that it was in the "early stages."
"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," said the Queen's office in a statement.
While it's unsure what the duo's next move is, the pair have been rumored to settle down in Los Angeles, possibly. "She likes the lifestyle and the privacy there," said a source. "She has been getting advice on the move from close friends, including Oprah and the Clooneys, and they have encouraged her that she and Harry can step away from the royal family and follow their own path."
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
And if you're wondering if the Queen would strip Prince Harry and Meghan Markle of their "Sussex" titles, that could happen, but to avoid even more drama, it looks like the Buckingham Palace will put that idea on the back burner for now.
"This has moved from shock and a range of emotions to something more constructive," a source said. "It is complicated."
For more celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
RELATED STORIES
Bianca Rodriguez is the Audience Development Manager at Future, covering fashion, beauty, and more for Marie Claire, Who What Wear US and Who What Wear UK. In addition to spearheading SEO content across brands—whether writing about wardrobe must-haves or strategizing how to make eye-catching content—she is also an avid reader with a deep love and knowledge for books of all genres. More often than not, you can find her lounging with a good book on the weekend.
-
Princess Kate's Sculpted Cheeks Could Be the Work of This Insider-Loved Treatment
The technique also has Meghan Markle's stamp of approval.
By Hanna Lustig Published
-
32 Great TV Shows That Capture What We Love About Our Closest Friendships
Watch these with your bestie (or when you miss them).
By Katherine J. Igoe Published
-
Kaia Gerber Test-Drives Selena Gomez's Winter Shoe Styling Hack
There's still a way to wear those open-toe heels.
By Halie LeSavage Last updated
-
Meghan Markle Masters Baby Shower Dressing in the Perfect Pink Posse Dress
Spring party inspo, delivered.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Every Time the Royal Family Broke Protocol in 2024, From Minor Rule Changes to Huge Mistakes
Meet the usual suspects: King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Kate Middleton.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Queen Camilla's Son Reveals He "Learned a Long Time Ago" to Stay Out of Prince William and Prince Harry's "World"
Tom Parker Bowles said "it was appalling what they went through."
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Prince William Is Allegedly Still "Very, Very Angry" About Royal Rift, But Kate Middleton Is Pushing For "Reconciliation"
"Never give up hope, there's always a chance."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Prince Harry's "Despair" at Online Trolls "Trying to Make Trouble" For His Family Is Understandable, Says Royal Expert
"He says he is happy. I believe him."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Meghan Markle Reveals Impressive Hidden Skill in New Netflix Documentary With Prince Harry
What can't she do?
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Princess Eugenie Could Spend Christmas With Meghan Markle and Prince Harry in California
"She has also been invited to Sandringham."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Meghan Markle's Fresh Manicure Says White Nails Aren't Just a Summer Trend
White nails—they're not just a summer manicure trend anymore.
By Hanna Lustig Published