Paul Burrell, who served as Princess Diana’s butler, has suggested that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have noticed a decrease in their social interactions in the glitz and glamour of California. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, formerly engrossed in the royal rituals of the UK, are apparently seeing a reduction in their close circle of friends.The allure of Hollywood appears to be fleeting for royalty, too.
Burrell’s comments indicate a noteworthy change in the pair’s social life. “Harry and Meghan’s circle is getting smaller and smaller,” he stated in a recent interview. This shrinking circle is evident in the reluctance of big names like Oprah Winfrey to maintain their once-close relationships with the Sussexes. Celebrities like George and Amal Clooney, as well as Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom, have reportedly declined invitations from the couple, indicating a wider disconnection.
This drop in popularity among celebrities signifies a deeper issue. “Back in the day, the A-listers were riding on the moment — Harry and Meghan were the most popular couple in the country at one time, when they got married, but there’s since been a decline,” Burrell pointed out. Hollywood’s fickle loyalties seem to have moved on from the Sussexes, who were once seen as a refreshing and unconventional influence in royal circles.
Their move to California was conceived as a fresh start and a chance to reshape their public image away from the strict rules of royal life. Meghan, who has her roots in Hollywood and friendships with celebrities like Priyanka Chopra and Serena Williams, seemed particularly prepared for this shift. However, maintaining relationships in a place known for its ephemeral connections has proven to be a challenge.
Despite his decision to embrace life in America—marked by a formal renouncement of his UK residency—Prince Harry is reportedly being pulled back to the UK. Royal commentator Tom Quinn suggests that Prince Harry’s effort to establish a permanent base in the UK is not merely logistical but also about reconnecting with a part of his identity that remains rooted on the other side of the Atlantic. “Harry is determined to find his own permanent home in the UK,” said Quinn, drawing attention to possible attempts to reconcile with distant relatives.
Prince Harry’s task is made more complex by personal disagreements. According to Quinn, the prince’s old friends are hesitant to visit him in the U.S., possibly due to tensions with Meghan.
As they navigate these changes, the Sussexes continue to grapple with the demands of their public roles. Their interactions with celebrities are indicative not just of social shifts but also of the intricate task of maintaining public favor while handling personal realities.
