Why a Sussex divorce might look very different depending on who ends it
Speculation around the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has resurfaced, with royal commentators debating what a split would mean—and who would come out stronger.
According to insiders, Meghan Markle is unlikely to initiate divorce. The main reason, they argue, is that leaving Harry could cost her the coveted title of Duchess of Sussex, which remains her most powerful public asset. By contrast, Harry could stand to gain considerably if he were the one to step away.
Adding to the tension are recent tabloid reports about Meghan’s growing visibility at high-profile events alongside wealthy and influential men. Some observers suggest these appearances are meant to spark Harry’s jealousy and keep him more devoted, though critics call it a risky strategy in a marriage already under strain.
Royal watchers note that while billionaires may enjoy the cachet of royal connections, they are unlikely to align themselves with a divorced Duchess of Sussex—especially one whose children, Archie and Lilibet, remain closely tied to the Royal Family. “Access to the monarchy carries prestige,” one commentator told the Daily Mail, “but no serious billionaire wants to risk being frozen out by the institution itself.”
For Harry, however, the dynamics are very different. With legal support from King Charles, he could seek custody of the children on the grounds of their royal status. Biographer Tom Bower has already warned that any Sussex divorce would become “an epic circus,” one that Harry could navigate with institutional backing Meghan lacks.
The echoes of Princess Diana’s reluctant split from Charles loom over Meghan’s situation. Like Diana, Meghan may find divorce unavoidable if tensions worsen. But the fallout could be harsher. She might be bound by strict non-disclosure agreements that block her from writing future memoirs, and rather than receiving ongoing support, she could even face obligations to contribute financially, depending on the terms.
Meghan has been trying to establish her lifestyle venture, American Riviera Orchard, as a global brand. Yet analysts point out the business has struggled to gain traction, and her public image remains polarising. Without her royal title, her marketability would shrink considerably. As one royal watcher summed it up: “Her entire leverage is built on being the Duchess of Sussex. Without that, she is far less powerful.”
