As the Swedish royal family welcomes Princess Madeleine back home, royal experts reflect on the contrast between her private life and the public struggles of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
In the aftermath of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's decision to step back as senior royals, royal experts have drawn comparisons to the experiences of Swedish princesses who have managed to maintain a balance between their public and private lives.
Princess Madeleine of Sweden, who recently returned to her home country after several years in the United States, has been praised for her ability to live a relatively quiet life despite her royal status. In contrast, Prince Harry and Meghan have faced criticism for airing their grievances since their move to California.
Royal Exits: Swedish Princesses Navigate Privacy vs. Public Life, While Harry and Meghan Face Criticism
According to royal commentator Shannon Felton Spence, Madeleine and her husband, Christopher O'Neill, have prioritized living a normal life. Spence notes that the Swedish court has supported Madeleine's decision to remove the royal titles of her grandchildren, allowing them to lead more private lives.
Another expert, Hilary Fordwich, suggests that Madeleine's move back to Sweden may have been motivated by a desire for her children to be immersed in her culture and learn Swedish. Christopher O'Neill's decision to forego an official title and continue working in finance has also been cited as an example of prioritizing personal values over royal status.
Royal Exits: Swedish Princesses Navigate Privacy vs. Public Life, While Harry and Meghan Face Criticism
In comparison, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have experienced a rocky road in America. Harry's memoir "Spare" revealed deep family rifts and his unhappiness as a royal, while the couple's TV interviews and documentary have further strained relations.
Christopher Andersen, author of "The King," notes that Madeleine's father, King Carl XVI Gustaf, faced a public scandal in 2010 involving allegations of extramarital affairs. However, the Swedish monarchy has regained popularity, with the public focusing on the positive contributions of the royal family, including Madeleine and her children.
Royal Exits: Swedish Princesses Navigate Privacy vs. Public Life, While Harry and Meghan Face Criticism
Despite their close family ties, Crown Princess Victoria, who is next in line to the Swedish throne, has also faced challenges, including a rare disorder that affects her ability to recognize faces. Her husband, Prince Daniel, recently denied rumors of marital discord in a televised interview.
Royal experts believe that Princess Madeleine's return to Sweden and her family's decision to live a more private life could serve as a blueprint for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. However, it remains uncertain whether the Sussexes are interested in resuming royal duties, especially given Harry's recent confirmation of his U.S. residency.
Royal Exits: Swedish Princesses Navigate Privacy vs. Public Life, While Harry and Meghan Face Criticism
As the British royal family faces ongoing scrutiny and transitions, the experiences of the Swedish monarchy provide insights into the challenges and opportunities of navigating the balance between public service and personal privacy. Madeleine's story demonstrates that it is possible for royal family members to lead fulfilling lives outside the spotlight, while Harry and Meghan's struggles highlight the complexities of living in a public eye that demands both accountability and discretion.
