Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s decision to step back as senior members of the royal family left many in shock – including the royal family themselves, it seems.
But there might have been some pretty obvious signs that the bombshell announcement was coming all along, and it all begins with their eight-month-old son, Archie Harrison.
The birth of baby Archie drew global attention – but did we miss a key sign?
(Dominic Lipinski / Getty)Indeed in the weeks leading up to Archie’s birth in early May, whispers were rife as to what his name might possibly be.
And many expected that like other children born into the family, the young Sussex would recieve a royal title.
As per royal tradition, Archie could have assumed the title of Earl of Dumbarton, however it is understood that Harry and Meghan opted not to give their newborn the title, presumably so that he could grow up in a more private environment away from the scrutiny faced by other royal family members.
Instead, the pair opted for the name Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, also known as Master Archie.
Archie’s name may have been the first giveaway that his parents were planning to step back from the royal family.
(Instagram)Speaking to The Express, Majesty magazine managing editor Joe Little said that the pair’s choice in name could have signalled the first sign that Harry and Meghan planned to step away.
“The fact Archie isn’t Earl of Dumbarton or styled HRH makes me wonder whether this wasn’t already part of a wider masterplan,” he told the publication.
The facts could stack up when one also considers the fact that Meghan and Harry asked for privacy following the birth of their son.
While Kate Middleton stepped out for an official photo call with her newborn babies within hours of giving birth, Meghan and Harry chose to wait several days before taking part in an official photo call.
By choosing to do things a little left-field for royals of their status, you can’t ignore that the signs were there for all to see – we just didn’t realise we should have been looking for them.
WATCH: See the sweet moment Meghan strokes baby Archie at his first official photo call. Story continues…
Meghan and Harry’s future was discussed at length in a crisis meeting held at Sandringham on January 13, attended by the Queen, Prince Charles and Prince William.
Harry was also present at the meeting, which was followed up by a statement from the Queen herself, who confirmed that she supported the Duke and Duchesses decision.
“We respect and understand their wish to live a more independent life as a family while remaining a valued part of my family,” she penned in a rare personal statement.
