In the March 2021 interview with CBS, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle offered insight into their decision to step back from royal duties, revealing personal struggles and clarifying misconceptions. Here’s what we summarize from their candid discussion:

Harry and Meghan emphasized how they saved each other from the pressures of royal life. Harry credited Meghan for rescuing him, but she believed it was Harry’s decision to leave the royal family that saved them all, especially considering their son, Archie.

Meghan reflected on her regrets about trusting the royal family to protect her. She shared that had she realized earlier that this protection wouldn’t be forthcoming, she might have taken more action. However, now that they have moved on, she feels they are not just surviving, but thriving.

Harry addressed his relationship with his brother, Prince William, acknowledging their deep bond but noting that they are on different paths. He expressed hope that time will heal the rift between them, even as they remain distant.

The couple explained their departure from royal duties as a necessary move to protect themselves, with Harry particularly concerned about history repeating itself, alluding to his mother, Princess Diana. The added factors of race and media scrutiny made the situation increasingly difficult for them to manage.

Addressing rumors that Queen Elizabeth was blindsided by their exit, Harry firmly denied it, suggesting the misleading report likely came from within the royal institution itself. He insisted that the queen had been kept in the loop about their plans.

Harry opened up about the strained relationship with his father, Prince Charles, revealing that Charles had stopped taking his calls at one point. While Harry expressed feelings of being let down, he remains hopeful that they will reconcile in the future.

Meghan shared the heartbreaking experience of having suicidal thoughts due to overwhelming negative press and lack of support. She revealed that, despite seeking help, she was denied the assistance she needed, leading her to a dark place emotionally.

The interview took a startling turn when Meghan disclosed that there were concerns within the royal family about how dark Archie’s skin would be before he was born. She declined to name who had raised the issue, but it was a pivotal moment in understanding the racism they faced.

Throughout the interview, Meghan clarified that her relationship with the queen had always been positive, sharing heartwarming anecdotes about gifts and gestures from Her Majesty. This, she emphasized, was in contrast to other members of the royal family.

Lastly, Meghan spoke about her much-publicized disagreement with Duchess Kate. She clarified that, contrary to reports, it was Kate who made her cry over flower girl dresses before the wedding. Despite the hurt, Meghan held no ill will toward Kate and expressed disappointment that the story had been misrepresented.

The interview closed with lighter moments as the couple sharing news about their daughter on the way, their early private wedding, and their rescue chickens at home in Los Angeles. These personal touches rounded out an emotional and revealing conversation.