Opinion | Why Megxit is a win for women and girls: there’s a lot more to real life than being a princess

Many can’t seem to understand why Meghan Markle wouldn’t want to be a princess. But what woman, especially a self-proclaimed feminist, would really be satisfied with living a life where she can’t speak out or act without royal clearance?

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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry leave Windsor Castle after their wedding in May 2018. Less than two years later, Markle’s rejection of royal life has been emphatic. Photo: AP

Published: 9:00pm, 21 Jan 2020Updated: 9:00pm, 21 Jan 2020

If ever there was a resounding rejection of the idea central to countless fairy tales and romantic films – that marrying a handsome prince is the pinnacle of achievement for a woman – then it has been surely come from Meghan Markle.

The decision by Markle and Prince Harry to walk away from royal life, leave Britain and “become financially independent” has caused widespread consternation and condemnation.

Whatever the machinations behind the move, part of the outcry can certainly be attributed to the fact that many simply can’t believe someone would not want to be a princess.

In other words, why would an American actress, who appears to have overcome hurdles of geography and heritage to pull off the ultimate act of hypergamy, then turn her back on a life of privilege, perks and palaces?

Back in 2018, the former Suits star seemingly had no problem sticking to the fairy-tale script. On her wedding day, she rolled through Windsor in a horse-drawn carriage with her dashing prince by her side, demure in dewy make-up and a white gown, serenaded by the cheers of adoring crowds.

But, less than two years later, Markle’s rejection of royal life has been emphatic – the compromises are not worth the proximity to the crown.