In December 2022, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry delighted royal fans with a rare glimpse into their family life through their Netflix docuseries, Harry & Meghan. However, since then, the couple has chosen to keep their children—5-year-old Archie and 3-year-old Lilibet—out of the public eye.
There’s a compelling reason behind their decision, according to an insider who spoke to Us Weekly on August 28, 2024. “Every parent wants to share special moments with the world, but for them, it’s just not possible,” the family friend revealed. The couple lost their taxpayer-funded security when they stepped down from royal duties in 2020, and Harry has been locked in a legal battle to secure the right to pay for private protection during their visits to the UK.
Meanwhile, Prince William and Kate Middleton continue to share glimpses of their royal life, regularly releasing photos of their three children on birthdays and occasionally bringing them to public events. However, for Harry and Meghan, this simply isn’t an option.
“William’s children have significantly more security, even though they are in the public eye,” the source explained to Us Weekly. “That level of protection just doesn’t extend to Meghan and Harry’s kids. They understand that people want to see Archie and Lilibet, but until their security situation is resolved—if it ever is—they are choosing to keep their lives more private.”
Harry has been vocal about these concerns. In the ITV documentary Tabloids on Trial, which aired earlier this summer, he spoke candidly about the potential dangers. “All it takes is one person who believes what they read to act on it,” he warned. “Whether it’s a knife or acid, these are real threats. It’s one of the reasons I won’t bring my wife back to this country.”
Despite the challenges, life in Montecito has been filled with warmth and joy for the Sussexes. “Archie is sweet, curious, and playful, while Lili is full of energy and happiness,” the insider shared. “They are raising two well-mannered children in a loving, hands-on environment.”
Meghan and Harry are dedicated to giving their kids as normal a childhood as possible. “They take them to school, pick them up, and are actively present throughout the day,” the source added.
As for their connection to the British royal family? “Those conversations will happen in due time,” the insider said.
