Prince Harry got candid about his relationship with Meghan Markle and the constant buzz surrounding their lives during a conversation at The New York Times’ 2024 DealBook Summit. Joining NYT columnist Andrew Ross Sorkin in New York City on Dec. 4, Harry tackled everything from media scrutiny to his philanthropic goals, all while maintaining his signature wit.
When asked about the endless speculation over their marriage—especially with Meghan attending a gala in California while Harry was in New York—Harry handled the question with humor. “Because you invited me!” he quipped, earning laughs from the audience. But he didn’t shy away from calling out the exhausting cycle of rumors, noting, “Apparently, we’ve moved houses 10 or 12 times and divorced just as many. It’s hard to keep up.”
The Duke of Sussex admitted the constant attention isn’t something he welcomes. “I feel sorry for the trolls,” he joked. “Their hopes build up, but then nothing happens. I genuinely feel bad for them.”
Harry also reflected on the challenges of growing up in the public eye, saying, “I’ve seen stories about myself and others that just aren’t true. It makes you question the damage that misinformation can do over time.” He’s passionate about addressing these issues, particularly online safety for kids. “I’d love to work with shareholders of social media companies. They’re parents too, and hopefully, they’d agree that protecting kids is vital,” he said.
On his life in California with Meghan and their two kids, Prince Archie, 5, and Princess Lilibet, 3, Harry expressed joy. “I love raising my kids here. There are things we can do in the U.S. that we wouldn’t be able to in the U.K.,” he shared.
The event also highlighted Harry’s ongoing charity work, including his involvement with Sentebale, which supports children affected by HIV/AIDS. Meanwhile, Meghan was busy on the West Coast, honoring Tyler Perry at the Paley Honors Gala in Beverly Hills. The couple’s independent schedules reflect what insiders describe as a “twin-track approach” to their public lives, with Harry focused on philanthropy and Meghan pursuing entrepreneurial ventures.
“They’ve hit their stride as individuals,” a source close to the couple shared. While they’re thriving as a team, their separate projects allow each to shine in their unique ways.
Harry’s lighthearted yet thoughtful responses reminded everyone of his resilience and commitment to making a positive impact—whether as a devoted dad, husband, or advocate for change.