January 8, Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, announced on their Instagram page that they would be stepping down from their positions as senior members of the Royal family.The post explains that they want to  pursue becoming more financially independent. 

“[The couple] did not consult any other members of the royal family about their decision,” said CNN news. 

Hours after the announcement was made, Buckingham Palace released a statement saying that the situation was complicated. The statement also reflected that the couple was at an early stage of this decision and while they want to take this approach, there are things they have to work on before they continue with this process. 

January 13, Queen Elizabeth II released her public statement that was fully in support of The Duke and Duchess’s decision. The Queen stated that she was supportive of their longing to create a new life with their young and growing family. 

In the same post that released the globally-shocking news, the couple announced they will also split their time between the United Kingdom and North America, specifically Canada. 

“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,” wrote the Royal couple.