Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's patronages have been redistributed to the active working royals. The Duchess of Sussex has been finally replaced as patron of the National Theatre by Prince Charles' wife, Camilla Parker Bowles.
Meghan Markle Out, Camilla Parker Bowles In As New Patron Of National Theatre
Camilla Parker Bowles has new patronage under her after the Queen decided to choose her and replace Meghan Markle's duty as the patron of the National Theatre. The monarch's decision to select the Duchess of Cornwall was not surprising as she has been a long supporter of arts and a devoted fan of theatre. She also champions literature and drama.
"It is a privilege to welcome the Duchess of Cornwall as the National Theatre's Royal Patron," said Rufus Norris, director and joint chief executive of the National Theatre, as quoted by Express. "The Duchess shares our belief that theatre enriches our lives in so many ways and that everyone should have access to the arts and creativity no matter where they are in the world."
He continued, "The duchess has shown great support to our industry throughout the pandemic, and I look forward to working with Her Royal Highness for many years to come. I would also like to express my thanks to the Queen for Her Majesty's long and unwavering support and service to the National Theatre."
Camilla's appointment marks the first of the Duchess of Sussex's former patronages to be taken over by another royal since she and Prine Harry stepped back from their royal duties in 2020. Kate Middleton was also the first royal to take over Prince Harry's patronages when she became the new royal patron of the Rugby Football Union and Rugby Football League.
Meghan Markle And Prince Harry Lost Royal Patronages After Deciding To Quit Royal Duties
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex announced in January 2020 that they were stepping back from their royal duties. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made their last official royal engagement at the Commonwealth Day service that year.
They relocated to the United States and have been living in California. However, the Queen was reluctant to let them go and even gave them a year to finalize their decision and make up their mind.
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Prince Harry and Markle stood by their decision and never returned to their royal duties. In 2021, the Queen strip them of their royal patronages and military affiliations, saying the Duke and Duchess of Sussex would not "continue with the responsibilities and duties that come with a life of public service." The monarch added that they would "remain much loved members of the family," BBC reported.
Prince Harry and Markle were allegedly hurt by the Queen's decision to strip them of their patronages and military affiliations. They also seemingly fired back at Her Majesty about service by releasing a statement that seemingly addressed the Queen.
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"As evidenced by their work over the past year, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex remain committed to their duty and service to the UK and around the world and have offered their continued support to the organisations they have represented regardless of official role," Prince Harry and Markle's spokesperson said, per BBC. "We can all live a life of service. Service is universal."
Stay tuned for more news and updates about the royal family.
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