Netizens have clashed swords over Prince Harry’s and Meghan Markle’s decision to step back as royals with the hashtag #megxit trending on social media. The Sussexes made the shocking statement via their Instagram saying they made this decision "after many months of reflection and internal discussions".
If there was anything that could polarize the British public and social media users more than Brexit, it was the couple’s decision to step back as royals, with some people saying they were happy for the Sussexes and backing them.
I’m so glad they have decided to do what is best for them. I hope that space from the royal family allows them to live peacefully and as privately as possible. Long live the Duke and Duchess of Sussex!! ☺️✨ #Megxit pic.twitter.com/72Kdu28pCM
— 𝙳𝚒𝚟𝚒𝚗𝚎 ♛ (@divinemiyako) January 9, 2020
Good for them!! Live the life they want away from the horrible British press
— NotABot (@NotABot7238) January 8, 2020
Others felt that by stepping down they (specifically Meghan) ruin the Royal Family and questioned the couple’s intention to become “financially independent”.
Meghan Markle has RUINED the royal family and that is just how I feel
— louise freeman (@YungThugWeezy) January 8, 2020
Realistically how are they ever going to be financially independent. They will forever be supported by the royal income and they are hardly going to deny it either. #MeghanAndHarry
— L|p (@_laurapalmare) January 8, 2020
Many social media users mentioned the renovation of the Sussexes’ home in Windsor, which cost taxpayers $3 million.
Dear Harry/Meghan
— hazchez (@hazboy) January 8, 2020
Fully understand why you are retiring. It mus be so tough being rich and fitting in work in between all those holidays.
Ps before you go can we please have our 2.4 million quid back that we spent doing up your cottage.
Thanks
UK Taxpayers
Netizens also argued about who was responsible for the decision with some saying that Harry has sacrificed everything for his wife, while others contended that Meghan was changing her spouse.
It’s romantic. He is choosing HER.
— MRS. Bernie BROad🌹🎹🎻 (@disneyphish) January 8, 2020
Not really. She is changing him.
— Trump/Rees-Mogg 2020 (@MAGA_Pete) January 8, 2020
Royal experts said the couple’s move is unprecedented and can be compared to Edward VIII’s abdication in 1936 in order to marry twice-divorced American Wallis Simpson, something which was also mentioned by netizens. One even posted a picture of King Edward VIII and his spouse and wrote: “Same s**t, different centuries".
The news caused lots of jokes and memes, in particular how Queen Elizabeth II and the rest of the family would react to the news. Media reports say senior royals were not aware of the Sussexes decision and learned about it like…common people, via the news and social media.
Trying to imagine how family dinner will go at the Palace this Sunday given what I've seen from The Crown lol 🇬🇧
— Mining for peace 🌱 not coal ⚠ (@MiningForPeace) January 8, 2020
The Queen right now #Megxit pic.twitter.com/MeZS2YYmPO
— ☆ J e N n i F e r ☆ (@jennifershore_) January 9, 2020
Lorde’s 2013 hit got a new meaning…
— Michelle O’Connor (@Mq2Oco) January 9, 2020
And of course many users wondered whether the Sussexes’ decision means that their jobs are now vacant and if they can apply for them.
So is Prince Harry’s job vacant now? Are they accepting applications? Asking for a friend. pic.twitter.com/CRo2uD1DS4
— Hunter Crowder™️ Can Fill In As A Prince If Needed (@HunterCrowder6) January 8, 2020
