Finding Peace Across the Pond: Prince Harry on Family Life in the US
Prince Harry shared deeply personal reflections on his life in the United States, describing it as the embodiment of his late mother’s wishes for him. Four years ago, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex made headlines with their decision to step back from royal duties and relocate to Montecito, California, in pursuit of financial independence and a life away from the UK spotlight.
A Place to Thrive
When asked at The New York Times Dealbook Summit if his family planned to remain in America permanently, Prince Harry responded with a resounding “I do,” stating with conviction, “I very much enjoy living here and bringing my kids up here.”
He elaborated on the unique benefits of their new life, emphasizing the heightened level of privacy and freedom they have found, attributing it to security concerns that made it “undoubtedly” impossible to achieve in the UK.
Navigating Past and Present
Prince Harry recently took legal action in response to changes made to his police protection arrangements when he’s in the UK. This action stems from the security downgrade he experienced after stepping down from his role as a working royal. During the summit interview, Harry poignantly spoke about the enduring impact of living in the public eye, directly connecting it to the mental health challenges he faced and the tragic loss of his mother, Princess Diana.
“I think again, when you are kind of trapped within this bubble, it kind of feels like there’s no way out,” he confessed. Recalling the trauma of his mother’s death in a 1997 Paris car crash while being pursued by paparazzi, he continued, “What happened to my mom and the fact that I was a kid and felt helpless, there comes the inner turmoil. I felt helpless.
“One of my biggest weaknesses is feeling helpless,” he admitted.
Expressing his deepest fear, Harry said what worried him most was a similar fate befalling him, his wife, or their children.
Finding Focus Amidst the Chaos
Though the royal couple remains a constant subject of international media attention, Harry declared his commitment to family, stating, “For now, my focus is on being the best husband and the best dad that I can be.”
Addressing the constant press scrutiny, he joked that he and his wife had apparently “moved house and divorced 10 to 12 times,” before adding with a chuckle, “It’s just like what? It’s hard to keep up with but that’s why you sort of ignore it.”
Just hours after the summit interview, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, made a glamorous appearance at a fundraising gala in Beverly Hills, California, a testament to the couple’s active engagement with both Hollywood and philanthropic endeavors.
What security challenges did Prince Harry face in the UK that led him to move to the US?
Good evening, and welcome back to the show. Tonight, we’re discussing Prince Harry’s recent comments about his life in the United States.
Joining us is royal commentator, Lady Penelope Fairfax.
Lady Fairfax, thank you for joining us.
**Lady Fairfax:** It’s my pleasure to be here.
**Host:** Prince Harry was very open about finding peace and freedom in America. He specifically mentioned raising his children in this environment. How do you think this statement will be received by the British public?
**Lady Fairfax:** I think it will be met with mixed reactions. There will be those who understand his desire for privacy and a more ”normal” life, especially after the intense scrutiny he faced in the UK. However, there will also be those who feel he is turning his back on his heritage and duty. It’s a delicate balance that Prince Harry is trying to navigate.
**Host:** He also mentioned security concerns as a significant factor in his decision to move. Can you shed light on the challenges he faced in the UK regarding his safety?
**Lady Fairfax:** Prince Harry has long expressed concerns about his and his family’s safety, particularly following his mother’s tragic death. After stepping back from royal duties, his security arrangements were understandably altered, which he has publicly challenged. This highlights the ongoing tension between his desire for a private life and the implications of his royal status.
**Host:** do you think Prince Harry’s comments suggest a permanent move to the US?
**Lady Fairfax:** Based on his words, it certainly seems likely. He expressed a strong commitment to his life in America and raising his children there. However, as we’ve seen, the relationship between the Sussexes and the Royal Family is constantly evolving. Only time will tell what the future holds.
**Host:** Thank you so much for sharing your insightful commentary, Lady Fairfax. It’s been a fascinating discussion.
**Lady Fairfax:** My pleasure.
