Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are shaking up the British Royal Family.
The couple announced today (Wednesday) that they intend to “step back as senior members of the Royal Family,” and split their time between the U.K. and North America.
On Instagram, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex wrote, “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."
The new parents say the move will allow them to provide "our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity."
This comes amid rumors of a rift between the couple and the other royals. Harry and Meghan did not spend Christmas with the royal family at Sandringham last year as is tradition. It also comes eight months after the birth of their son Archie.