On December 8th, Netflix released the first three episodes of Harry & Meghan, a documentary series about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and their story as a couple. Because of their experience with the British tabloids, the two wished to share their side of the story.

“I think the documentary was really good. It was very insightful on the lives of British royalty, and what it is like on the inside,” said Maya Boorman (‘25).

The documentary goes into detail about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s experience with the press, and how it influenced their decision in January 2020 to step down as senior members of the royal family. This choice did not shock some followers of the royal family.

“[I was] not surprised. Well, the only reason I say that is because I was probably twelve or thirteen when Princess Diana died, and that I think, is what kicked off my interest with the royal family because it was such a sad event. And because William and Harry are my age, it seems so jarring to me that a child would lose their parent. It didn’t surprise me when [Harry and Meghan] wanted to step out of that spotlight,” said Social Studies teacher Delise Anderson.

On the other hand, some followers of the British monarchy were shocked when they heard about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision.

“I was very shocked. I remember my mom telling me that they had stepped back, and I didn’t know that that was a thing anyone could do. And so I was very much confused on it, and it took me a second to realize this is something they can actually do. Then [Harry’s] not in line for the throne anymore,” said Boorman.

In the second installment of the documentary, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex made some accusations about certain members of the royal family. Despite this fact, neither King Charles’s nor Prince William’s have commented on the series.

“It’s absolutely not surprising. I mean, I think that that doesn’t necessarily mean that they don’t have an opinion. It just shows a lot of English reserve. One of the things that [former] Queen Elizabeth was really criticized for was not coming [out] publicly after Princess Diana died. I think the public felt so connected, but it’s a weird relationship, the relationship that the public has with figures like the royal family. So, I don’t know. I’m not surprised,” said English Teacher Lisa Perry