The Duke and Duchess of Sussex remained silent about the matter. But, sources repeatedly noted that they were not getting financial support from Prince Charles following their exit last March.
The uncertainty about the issue continued for months. However, an announcement earlier this month confirmed that they are no longer receiving any money from the Prince of Wales, according to Newsweek.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s desire to become financially independent
In January, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry announced their plans to step down as senior working royals. They included in their post that they also wanted to become “financially independent.”
While they “had been” receiving funds from the Duchy of Cornwall estate, their recent deal with Netflix has seemingly put it all to an end. Reports confirmed that the Sussex couple closed a “massive” deal with the streaming giant. They reportedly obtained about AU$68 to AU$136 million from the deal.
Buckingham Palace “eyes” the Netflix deal
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry signed the same deal that Michelle and Barack Obama have with Netflix, according to the Daily Express. This even caused many royal watchers to conclude that the Duke and Duchess are likely following the former First Couple’s footsteps.
Whether it is true or not, royal experts and commentators are seemingly more interested in what the deal entails. Not to mention, they are also looking after the British Royal Family’s reaction. A royal insider told The Mirror that the royal household would “scrutinize” any contract or venture that the Sussex couple intends to pursue.
The same source added that when Meghan and Harry left their royal posts, they agreed that they would subject “any commercial deals” to discussions. These include their Netflix deal, alongside their agreement with Harry Walker Agency for their “speaking engagements.”
Taxpayers’ money returned
One of the controversies that Meghan Markle and Prince Harry faced is the cost of the refurbishing of the Frogmore Cottage. Reports said that they spent about $3 million on the property before their relocation.
Their exit sparked anger toward the public because of the shocking costs. But, the Duke and Duchess ensured that they would pay back the money. They will also pay commercial rent since they will continue using the property when they return to the United Kingdom.
Following their Netflix deal, reports revealed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle paid the money in full to the Sovereign Grant.