Poll Shows Majority View Prince Harry and Meghan as Private Citizens
A recent poll of over 9,000 respondents found that 91% believe Prince Harry and Meghan Markle should be treated as private citizens rather than public figures, following King Charles' clarification of their royal status.
A poll conducted from September 9 to 10 asked readers whether Prince Harry and Meghan Markle should be regarded as public figures. Of the 9,302 participants, 8,449 (91%) voted that the couple should be treated as private citizens, while 51 respondents (1%) were unsure. The questionnaire followed King Charles' September 7 letter reaffirming that the Sussexes remain non-working members of the royal family and operate in a private capacity. Sources close to the couple have disputed the "private citizen" label, arguing that they continue to be prominent public figures despite no longer performing official duties. A spokesperson for the Sussexes told the BBC they were "a little surprised not to have been told about this in advance". Reports also indicate that Prince William asked King Charles to clarify the Sussexes' status in the United Kingdom.