As many recall, in early 2020 the Duke and Duchess of Sussex made the decision to step away as working members of the royal family. They had the Queen's blessing and it was agreed that they would be given a 12-month trial to see how this plan would work out. If at the end of the trial they decided they preferred a life of service to the crown, then they would be welcome back.
It was announced today that the Sussexes will not be returning in an official capacity as working members of the royal family. However, as she did last year, Her Majesty was keen to stress that Harry, Meghan and their growing family would always be "much loved members of the family."
This move means that Harry and Meghan will have to give up their royal patronages, a big blow to Harry who has built relationships with these organizations over the years. Some, like the Rugby Football League, have already written a touching farewell tweet to the Duke, which will no doubt have him needing some alone time under a palm tree in his multi-million dollar California home.
Royal watchers knew that Harry and Meghan would never return in an official capacity to the royal family. Whether it was a matter or pride or lining up projects (lucrative speaking engagements, deals with Spotify and Netflix), the couple really had no intention of returning to their royal duties.
What won't change is Harry's place in line to the throne (unless Will and Kate have another child, then he'll be bumped down once more). He'll always remain in the line of succession no matter what.
Someone on Twitter made a clear chart of the military accolades Harry would be losing (specifically those gifted to him by Her Majesty):
Do you think Harry and Meghan made the right decision?