London, June 2025 — Prince Harry’s controversial decision to step down from his royal duties sent shockwaves through the British monarchy, but a new documentary reveals just how deeply it impacted his grandfather, the late Prince Philip. According to “Megxit: Inside the Sandringham Summit”, aired on Channel 5, Prince Philip was “horrified” by Harry and Meghan Markle’s exit from royal life — a move that he viewed as a grave mistake.

The Sandringham Summit: A Turning Point in Royal History

The now-infamous Sandringham Summit took place on January 13, 2020, at Queen Elizabeth II’s private estate in Norfolk. Key senior royals, including Queen Elizabeth, then-Prince Charles (now King Charles III), and Prince William, gathered to discuss Harry and Meghan’s plans to step back from royal responsibilities.

Prince Harry had requested the meeting to outline his and Meghan’s intentions to carve out a “progressive new role” within the royal family. However, the Duke of Edinburgh notably refused to attend the summit. His absence was a loud and clear statement of disapproval.

Prince Philip’s Reaction: ‘Dereliction of Duty’

Royal insiders featured in the documentary claim that Prince Philip was so upset by his grandson’s decision that he couldn’t bring himself to attend the meeting. Royal author Andrew Morton said Philip believed in strict duty and service, describing him as “someone who doesn’t suffer fools gladly.”

Journalist Emily Andrews revealed that Prince Philip viewed Harry’s choice as a “huge dereliction of duty,” which went against everything he had dedicated his life to. Reportedly, the Duke of Edinburgh was seen storming away from Sandringham in his Range Rover after the discussions began.

Harry and Meghan’s Statement: Financial Independence and Dual Residency

After the summit, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle released an official statement announcing their decision to step down as senior royals. They emphasized their goal of achieving financial independence while continuing to support Queen Elizabeth and their charitable efforts.

The couple also expressed a desire to divide their time between the United Kingdom and North America, aiming to create a more balanced lifestyle for their family while remaining active in the Commonwealth and their patronages.

The Royal Family’s Response: Understanding with Regret

Buckingham Palace released a formal statement on behalf of the Queen, acknowledging that while the royal family would have preferred Harry and Meghan to remain full-time working royals, they respected and supported the couple’s decision. The Queen’s message conveyed both understanding and sadness, marking the end of a traditional royal role for the Sussexes.

It was also confirmed that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex would not rely on public funds and would undergo a transition period during which they would live in both Canada and the UK.

Meghan Markle’s Netflix Revelation: ‘No Seat at the Table’

The controversy has remained a hot topic in the media and among royal commentators. In their widely viewed Netflix docuseries, Meghan Markle opened up about feeling excluded from the decision-making process, stating, “I didn’t have a seat at the table.” Her comments added to ongoing discussions about race, representation, and the rigid traditions of the British monarchy.

Documentary Sheds Light on Family Tensions

“Megxit: Inside the Sandringham Summit” delves deep into the behind-the-scenes tensions within the royal family, offering exclusive interviews and insider commentary. The documentary suggests that Harry and Meghan’s decision was not only controversial but also emotionally devastating for senior members of the monarchy — especially Prince Philip.

The film argues that the Duke of Edinburgh’s disapproval stemmed from a lifelong commitment to duty, loyalty, and preserving the monarchy’s image. His reaction is portrayed as a generational clash between tradition and a younger royal couple seeking modern independence.

Conclusion: A Royal Rift That Shaped the Monarchy

Prince Harry’s decision to step back from royal duties marked a seismic shift in the British royal family — one that continues to ripple through public discourse and family dynamics. The new revelations about Prince Philip’s reaction underscore the depth of emotion and conflict behind closed palace doors.

As the monarchy evolves, Megxit remains a defining chapter in its modern history, raising questions about identity, responsibility, and the cost of royal life in the 21st century.

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