The Royal Family have been dealing with a media storm the past 24 hours, but it's also Kate Middleton's birthday - and according to reports, the Cambridge's aren't thrilled that Meghan Markle and Prince Harry dropped their bombshell news right before. ICYMI, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced they're officially stepping down as "senior" members of the royal family, and didn't tell anyone about it first. Major.
Watch Below: Prince Harry And Meghan Markle Release Never-Before-Seen Photo Of Archie
“Harry and Meghan rubbed salt into the wounds by making the huge announcement a day before Kate’s birthday,” a source told Us Weekly. “It hasn’t gone down well with William.”
“William was blindsided by Harry and Meghan’s decision and statement,” and that “There’s still a rift between the two brothers. It’s sad because when they were younger, William would be the first person Harry would go to with big news like this. William is incredibly hurt, but at the same time he has his own family to focus on and is trying to move forward with his life.”
If an unnamed source doesn't convince you the royals aren't pleased with Harry and Megs, a statement directly from the Queen doesn't seem to deter the rumours. “Discussions with The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are at an early stage. We understand their desire to take a different approach, but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through,” an official press release said.
In addition to redefining their royal roles, Harry and Meghan also plan to become financially independent from the Crown. They also are planning a move to North America, where they will spend their time when they are not in the UK.
"We now plan to balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America, continuing to honour our duty to The Queen, the Commonwealth, and our patronages,” they wrote on Instagram. “This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity.
“We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties. Until then, please accept our deepest thanks for your continued support.”
