Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are “on the clock” as they receive an ultimatum over their royal status and privileges

The Duke and Duchess os Sussex left their roles as senior working royals in 2020.

Nearly two years after the passing of Queen Elizabeth, the British royal family continues to be in the global spotlight, as is often the case with such powerful dynasties. There have been numerous headlines, ranging from King Charles’ unfortunate battle with cancer to Kate Middleton’s own revelation of her cancer diagnosis in a video, and even to the future heir, Prince William, dancing to Taylor Swift at a concert.

The monarchy appears to be shrinking, as evidenced by the limited presence on the Buckingham Palace balcony during the June 15 Trooping the Colour. Only 15 members of the royal family participated in the annual event, which typically features dozens of aristocrats and their families. Notably absent were Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, highlighting the growing distance between them and the royal fold. If they wish to return to royal life, time seems to be running out, especially since Harry has never been so far from the crown

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who stepped down as senior working royals in 2020 after being denied the half-in, half-out lifestyle they sought, are realizing that their chance to reconcile with the royal family is slipping away. Busy building a new life in America, Prince Harry and Meghan now recognize that independent life is more challenging than they anticipated, particularly for the prince, who likely lacks domestic skills. The prevailing sentiment is that Harry and Meghan made their choice and must now live with the consequences, possibly forfeiting all royal privileges.

King Charles III appears committed to his vision of a streamlined monarchy, a plan his heir, Prince William, intends to uphold when he ascends to the throne. “When the older members of the family retire,” a friend of Prince William told a news outlet, “His Royal Highness won’t be inviting anyone else to become working royals.” This, coupled with the rumored rift between William and Harry, suggests a bleak future for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. “Members from the Royal Family have told Harry, if he wants a relationship with the rest of the family, then first and foremost, he has got to stop talking about them,” royal correspondent Russell Myerstold Sky News Australia on June 19.

It seems the decision made by the Sussexes in 2020 will continue to define their future, with their royal status hanging in the balance.