Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are currently focusing on the expansion of their lifestyle brand, As Ever, and the recent restructuring of their charitable organization into Archewell Philanthropies. In February 2026, the couple made high-profile appearances at the Sundance Film Festival to premiere their documentary Cookie Queens, while Meghan recently made a solo appearance at the Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala in Los Angeles.
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s latest professional ventures, their evolving relationship with the British Royal Family, their current financial standing, and the internal changes within their California-based team. We also explore the details of their multi-year Netflix extension and what the future holds for their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, as they grow up in Montecito.
Sundance Film Festival Appearance
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attended the 2026 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, in late January to support their latest executive production, Cookie Queens. The documentary, produced through Archewell Productions, follows the journey of young entrepreneurs in a competitive cookie-selling season, marking a shift toward lighter, inspirational storytelling.
The couple was seen mingling with industry leaders, including Amy Redford, and Meghan delivered a brief speech at the premiere. This appearance served as a significant public re-entry for the couple in 2026, showcasing their continued commitment to the Hollywood entertainment circuit despite rumors of professional divergence.
Meghan’s Solo Gala Appearance
On February 7, 2026, Meghan Markle attended the Fifteen Percent Pledge Fundraising Gala at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles without Prince Harry. She wore a stunning strapless gown by Harbison Studio, drawing international fashion headlines for her “Old Hollywood” aesthetic and minimal, elegant styling.
The event, which supports Black-owned businesses, aligns with the Duchess’s long-standing advocacy for economic equity and representation. Her solo appearance sparked discussion among royal observers regarding the couple’s increasing frequency of independent professional engagements as they pursue distinct career paths in lifestyle and philanthropy.
Archewell Foundation Major Rebrand
The couple’s charitable arm has undergone a significant transformation, officially rebranding from the Archewell Foundation to Archewell Philanthropies in early 2026. This change coincides with a shift to a fiscal sponsorship model, which the couple’s spokesperson suggests will provide greater administrative flexibility for their global initiatives.
Critics and financial analysts have closely monitored this transition, noting that the new structure changes how donations and grants are disclosed publicly. Despite the scrutiny, the organization continues to focus on its core pillars: digital safety, mental health support, and aiding children in conflict zones like Gaza and Ukraine.
Professional Staffing Changes
Recent reports indicate a period of transition within the Sussexes’ professional inner circle following the departure of high-level executives. James Holt, the long-standing Executive Director of Archewell, transitioned to a consultant role, while their chief U.S. publicist also stepped down after a short tenure.
These departures have led to speculation regarding the management style at the Montecito office, though sources close to the couple describe the exits as a natural evolution of their business. The couple is reportedly looking to hire new leadership to oversee the global rollout of Meghan’s lifestyle products and the upcoming Netflix slate.
Netflix Partnership Extension
Archewell Productions has officially extended its creative partnership with Netflix through a multi-year, first-look deal. While the initial $100 million agreement signed in 2020 has concluded, this new arrangement focuses on specific projects like the adaptation of the novel Meet Me at the Lake.
A centerpiece of this extension is the lifestyle series With Love, Meghan, which has become a significant hit for the platform. The show’s success has solidified the Duchess’s position as a lifestyle influencer, with a second season and a holiday special already in production for late 2026 release.
As Ever Lifestyle Brand
Meghan Markle’s lifestyle brand, As Ever, is moving into a full commercial phase with the launch of a romantic Valentine’s Day-themed campaign. The brand, which evolved from her earlier American Riviera Orchard concept, offers a range of jams, teas, cookie mixes, and home goods.
The marketing strategy emphasizes “slow mornings” and domestic warmth, utilizing social media to build a sentimental connection with consumers. Analysts expect the brand to be a primary revenue driver for the couple as they move further away from royal-centric media content and toward independent entrepreneurship.
Relationship with Prince William
Tensions between Prince Harry and Prince William remain a focal point of public interest as the Prince of Wales takes on more senior responsibilities. Reports suggest Harry has considered a “diplomacy mission” to bridge the gap, potentially using the upcoming 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham as a neutral ground for a meeting.
However, palace insiders indicate that Prince William remains cautious, prioritizing the stability of the monarchy and the privacy of his family. While there has been no official confirmation of a reconciliation, the shifting dynamics within the royal family due to King Charles’s health have prompted renewed calls for family unity.
Interactions with King Charles
Prince Harry has maintained a “respectful and cautious” line of communication with King Charles III throughout late 2025 and early 2026. Following a private meeting at Clarence House, sources suggest the King is open to a gradual reset of the relationship, though a return to official royal duties for Harry is not currently on the table.
The King’s ongoing health journey has reportedly softened the tone of their interactions, with Harry making brief, private visits to the UK when possible. These updates suggest that while the rift with William persists, the father-son bond is being carefully managed behind the scenes.
Financial Status in 2026
As of early 2026, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s combined net worth is estimated at approximately $60 million. This wealth is a combination of Prince Harry’s inheritance, the proceeds from his memoir Spare, and the couple’s various media deals with Netflix and formerly Spotify.
The couple no longer receives any taxpayer funding or financial support from the Duchy of Cornwall, making them entirely financially independent. Their 18,000-square-foot Montecito mansion remains their primary asset, serving as both a family home and a base for their various business ventures.
Security and UK Travel
A significant update in 2026 involves the couple’s legal battles over UK security. Following a review of their status, it was reported that the Sussexes may be granted government-funded protection during specific high-risk visits to the United Kingdom, resolving a long-standing point of contention.
This development could facilitate more frequent visits to Britain for Prince Harry and potentially his children. Harry has expressed a desire for Archie and Lilibet to know their British heritage, though California remains their permanent home and primary place of residence.
Life in Montecito
The Sussexes have fully embraced their life in Montecito, California, where they are often seen engaging in local community activities. Prince Harry has reportedly taken up surfing and is frequently spotted biking near their home, while Meghan is active in the local social and philanthropic scene.
The couple prioritizes a private life for their children, away from the constant lens of the paparazzi that characterized their time in London. Their residence in the exclusive enclave allows them to mingle with other high-profile neighbors while maintaining a secure perimeter for their growing family.
Growing Up Californian
Prince Archie, now 6, and Princess Lilibet, 4, are being raised with a distinctly Californian upbringing. They are reportedly attending local schools and are involved in various extracurricular activities common to the Santa Barbara area.
While Prince Harry ensures they learn about their royal lineage, their daily lives are centered on the American experience. This “dual identity” is something the couple manages carefully, balancing their children’s titles with a desire for them to have a “normal” childhood away from the constraints of palace protocol.
Future Professional Projects
Looking ahead, Archewell Productions has several projects in the pipeline, including a documentary short titled Masaka Kids: A Rhythm Within. The couple is also reportedly exploring scripted content and more “behind-the-scenes” lifestyle programming to complement Meghan’s brand.
Harry continues his work as Chief Impact Officer at BetterUp and remains deeply involved with the Invictus Games Foundation. Their future strategy appears to be one of “separation of powers,” where they support each other’s major initiatives while leading their own independent projects in their respective fields of interest.
Practical Information and Planning
For those following the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s public engagements or looking to support their charitable work, the following details are relevant for the 2026 calendar year.
- Official Website: Latest updates and statements are published at Sussex.com.
- Charitable Giving: Donations to their causes can be directed through Archewell Philanthropies.
- Invictus Games 2027: Planning is underway for the Birmingham games; tickets and schedules are typically released 12 months in advance.
- As Ever Products: Available primarily through the brand’s official online storefront and select boutique retailers in California.
- Netflix Content: With Love, Meghan and the Harry & Meghan docuseries are available globally to all Netflix subscribers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do Harry and Meghan live now?
They reside in a private estate in Montecito, California, which they purchased in 2020. The area is known for its high-profile residents and privacy.
Are Harry and Meghan still part of the Royal Family?
They remain members of the Royal Family and retain their titles as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, but they are no longer “working royals” and do not represent the King officially.
Will Prince Harry return to the UK in 2026?
Harry makes occasional private visits to the UK to see King Charles and for legal proceedings, but there are no current plans for him to return to a permanent role.
What is Archewell Philanthropies?
It is the rebranded name of the Archewell Foundation, the couple’s non-profit organization focused on mental health and digital safety.
What was the ‘Cookie Queens’ documentary about?
Produced by the Sussexes, it is a documentary about young girls navigating the competitive world of entrepreneurship through cookie sales.
Is Prince Harry still involved with the Invictus Games?
Yes, he remains the Patron and Founder of the Invictus Games Foundation, which is his primary philanthropic focus.
What is the Fifteen Percent Pledge?
It is a non-profit organization that asks retailers to commit 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned businesses; Meghan is a vocal supporter.
Final Thoughts
As 2026 unfolds, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle find themselves at a critical professional and personal crossroads. Having spent the last several years establishing a distinct “Brand Sussex” in California, the couple is now shifting from a period of high-profile media disruption to a more sustainable, commercially driven lifestyle and philanthropic model. Meghan’s relaunch of her lifestyle label, As Ever, and the creative pivot of Archewell Productions toward uplifting fiction and documentaries like Cookie Queens signal a desire to move beyond the shadow of royal controversy.
However, this transition has not been without its hurdles. The restructuring of their charitable arm into Archewell Philanthropies and the high-level staff turnover in early 2026 suggest a period of internal recalibration. While financial stability remains strong—bolstered by a reported net worth of $60 million and a renewed, targeted partnership with Netflix—the couple continues to face scrutiny regarding their operational transparency and public image.
On the family front, the possible “diplomacy mission” involving the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham offers a glimmer of hope for royal reconciliation. As Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet grow up in the privacy of Montecito, the Duke and Duchess remain committed to balancing their royal heritage with their American reality. Whether 2026 will be remembered as the year they finally bridged the gap with the House of Windsor or the year they fully solidified their status as independent global entrepreneurs remains to be seen, but their influence on the modern cultural landscape is undeniable.
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