The decision by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to step back from royal duties and relocate to the United States has been revisited in a Vanity Fair article that highlights ten key ways their transition has faced challenges.

Over the past five years, the Sussexes have attracted significant scrutiny as they’ve shared insights into their lives as royals through interviews, documentaries, and Harry’s memoir, Spare. However, questions have surfaced about their long-term plans, especially once their stories about the Royal Family are exhausted.

The couple initially secured lucrative deals with Netflix and Spotify, but their output has been mixed. Notably, Meghan’s Archetypes podcast, which aimed to tackle female stereotypes, produced just one season before its cancellation. The article delves into several contentious moments and decisions that have defined the Sussexes’ time in the U.S., including accusations of bullying, business missteps, and public perceptions.

Allegations of Bullying

Meghan has faced allegations of bullying staff, though she has consistently denied them. Vanity Fair cites unnamed sources claiming that some employees experienced significant strain while working with Meghan, with one taking a leave of absence after contributing to Archetypes. Others reportedly sought therapy or left their jobs entirely.

Local Reputation

Since purchasing a Montecito mansion in 2020, Harry and Meghan haven’t won over all their neighbors. A local resident referred to them as “the prince and the starlet,” while others have labeled them “local villains,” accusing them of drawing unwanted visitors to the area. Even the local steakhouse, Lucky’s, has reportedly become harder to book since the couple’s arrival.

Questions About Archetypes

The article claims Archetypes was not Meghan’s original idea but instead came from an employee, though the intellectual property remained with Archewell Audio. Delays in production reportedly forced Spotify’s studio Gimlet to step in, suggesting issues with execution.

Harry’s Changing Role

According to a source, Meghan has taken on a “caregiver and facilitator” role in their relationship, which some have described as “reparenting” Harry. The insider claimed that Harry has changed significantly, becoming less eager to engage with the media since his marriage.