What did Harry and Meghan lose post Megxit? Inside the forfeited titles and patronages

It has already been five years since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s departure from the UK and the post Megxit years have left much to be desired.

While the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are constantly in headlines and there is no want of royal gossip since their exit, one does wonder what could have been had the couple remained active members of the Firm.

Since they were made to relinquish a host of royal titles and esteemed patronages after they stepped down, let’s take a trip down the memory lane and rediscover the most significant ones among them.

Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

Although founded under Prince William and Kate Middleton’s previous titles, Prince Harry was a co-founder of the Royal Foundation and later came to share its responsibilities with Meghan Markle.

Though the Sussex camp separated from the organisation in 2019, a year before Megxit, the departure came down to the growing rift between the two royal brothers and their respective families — part of the cirumstances which led to Harry and Meghan’s retreat.

Rugby Football Union and Rugby Football League

Harry had to step away from his role as royal patron of both the Rugby Football Union and Rugby Football League — a duty since filled in by Princess Kate.

Per The Independent, the Duke also had to give up responsibilities which included “his work with rugby in schools and the injured players foundation.”

Royal National Theatre

Much like her husband’s solo work, Meghan was made patron of the Royal National Theatre prior to her exit from the royal fold.

A role which she succeeded from and was bestowed by Queen Elizabeth, the Duchess ceased to be Royal National Theatre’s patron in 2021.

Association of Commonwealth Universities

Meghan’s patronage of the Association of Commonwealth Universities was also returned to the Queen in 2021.

The association is an “inter-university network” which “comprises around 500 academic institutions around the Commonwealth.” (The Independent)

Military honours

Harry lost his military titles pertaining to Honorary Air Commandant at RAF Honington, Captain General of the Marines, and Commodore-in-Chief of Small Ships and Diving.

HRH titles

Finally, perhaps the most significant modification to Harry and Meghan’s post royal life was the abdication of their His/Her Royal Highness titles.

Stripped from the pair as soon as their royal retirement was announced in 2020, the Duchess was memorably found still signing off as HRH this year, contributing to much controversy.