As Prince Harry approaches his 40th birthday on September 15, 2024, his life bears little resemblance to what many might have anticipated a decade ago. The once-popular royal, fourth in line to the throne, has traded his life of royal duty for a new chapter in the United States.
Sources close to the Duke of Sussex have indicated that he has no intention of returning to his former royal responsibilities. Instead, Harry is fully committed to building his future in America, where he has resided for the past four years since stepping back from the British monarchy.
The Duke's journey has been marked by significant milestones. In 2014, at the age of 30, Harry launched the Invictus Games, an international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick service personnel. This initiative showcased his dedication to supporting veterans, a cause that remains close to his heart.
Harry's personal life has also undergone substantial changes. In 2018, he married Meghan Markle in a ceremony at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. The couple welcomed their first child, Archie, in 2019, followed by their daughter, Lilibet, in 2021. Now settled in Montecito, California, the family enjoys a life away from the royal spotlight.
"We are focusing on creating a better world for our children, one meaningful project at a time."
The Duke's relationship with his family in Britain remains complex. While he has made efforts to reconcile with his father, King Charles III, personal contact with both the King and Prince William has been minimal. However, Harry maintains strong ties with his mother's side of the family, the Spencers.
In California, Harry and Meghan have embraced their roles as philanthropists and content creators. They founded Archewell, an organization dedicated to non-profit work and creative media ventures. The couple has also signed deals with Netflix and Spotify, producing content that aligns with their values and interests.
As Prince Harry enters his fifth decade, those close to him assert that he is content with his current life and determined to look forward. His focus remains on the Sussexes' mission to "show up and do good," indicating a commitment to philanthropic endeavors and positive change.
The Duke's 40th birthday celebration is expected to take place in California, reflecting his new life and priorities. As he moves forward, Harry appears poised to continue his work on causes important to him, building a legacy that extends beyond his royal roots.