Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, has admitted that he is having a hard time finding his role in the world after leaving the royal family and the military.
According to a report by Express, the 39-year-old prince, who served in the British Army for 10 years, said he felt “lost” and “directionless” after stepping back from his royal duties and moving to California with his wife Meghan Markle and their two children.
He made the confession in a video message for the Stand Up for Heroes event, a comedy fundraiser for wounded veterans, where he also joked about being a ginger and living under the spotlight.
Harry, who wore four military medals and a poppy on his chest, said: “Due to the shockingly low representation of gingers last year, and out of respect for my fellow endangered species, here I am, reporting for duty.”
He added: “As someone who never gets scrutinised, I haven’t even had to prepare much.”
Harry’s humorous remarks were well received by the audience, but they also revealed his struggle to adjust to his new life, according to a royal expert.
Dr Tessa Dunlop, a royal historian, said on True Royalty TV’s The Royal Beat: “Harry looked sharp, he looked relaxed…the reason why the stuff has landed about purpose is because Harry is still also looking for a purpose post military life.”
She added: “Almost all military veterans struggle to readjust, and I think we have seen that publicity play out. So, let’s give him the benefit of the doubt on this one.”
Harry has been vocal about his mental health challenges and the trauma he experienced during his time in Afghanistan, where he served two tours as a helicopter pilot.
He has also spoken about the difficulties he faced growing up as a royal, especially after the death of his mother Princess Diana in a car crash when he was 12 years old.
He said in a recent interview with Oprah Winfrey that he felt “trapped” and “unhappy” in the royal family, and that he and Meghan decided to leave to protect their mental health and their family.
He also said that he was “disappointed” by his father King Charles, who stopped taking his calls and cut him off financially, and that he felt “let down” by his brother Prince William, who he said was “trapped” in the system.
Harry and Meghan, who are expecting their third child, a girl, in December, have signed lucrative deals with Netflix and Spotify to produce content that reflects their values and causes.
They have also launched their own foundation, Archewell, which aims to “uplift and unite communities” through various initiatives and partnerships.
However, some critics have accused them of being hypocritical and opportunistic, and of exploiting their royal status for personal gain.
They have also faced backlash for their involvement in political and social issues, such as urging Americans to vote in the 2020 presidential election and speaking out against racism and misinformation.
Harry has said that he does not regret his decision to leave the royal family, and that he hopes to heal the rifts with his relatives.
He has also said that he wants to use his platform and influence to make a positive difference in the world, and to support causes that are close to his heart, such as veterans, mental health, and the environment.
He said in his video message for the Stand Up for Heroes event: “I’m so proud to call myself a veteran, and being able to wear my poppy with pride. I continue to be inspired by the resilience, courage and spirit of the veteran community.”
He added: “As we approach Remembrance Sunday, we’re reminded of how much we owe to those who came before us, and those who continue to serve today.”
Harry’s search for a purpose may not be easy, but he is not alone. He has the support of his wife, his children, and millions of fans around the world, who admire him for his honesty, compassion, and courage.
