Royals

Prince Harry's reality hugely shocks Meghan Markle: Biggest source of tension in marriage?

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's security alone costs between $2 million and $4 million a year

Published May 16, 2026
Prince Harry’s reality turned out to be far different for Meghan

A royal expert has revealed one of the biggest sources of tension in Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s marriage.

Royal expert Rob Shuter, in his latest piece for Naughty But Nice substack, has claimed that money has quietly become one of the biggest sources of tension in the California-based royal couple’s marriage.

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Rob, citing the royal insiders, has explained that Meghan entered royal life believing Harry’s wealth came with virtually endless resources and billionaire-level security.

However, the reality turned out to be far different for Meghan, the former Suits actress.

The close insider said, “Meghan genuinely believed Harry was worth hundreds of millions. When she discovered the actual numbers, it was a huge shock. Yes, Harry is wealthy — but not ‘private jets forever without worrying’ wealthy.”

According to claims Archie and Lilibet doting father’s personal fortune is estimated to be between $50 million and $70 million, largely inherited from his late mother Princess Diana and grandmother Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.

The royal expert continued to explain that Harry’s wealth is enormous by ordinary standards, but insiders say it falls far short of sustaining the ultra-luxury global lifestyle the couple now maintains.

He said security alone costs between $2 million and $4 million a year.

Private travel, lawyers, PR teams, household staff, business managers, and the upkeep of their $29 million California mansion, and the bills quickly become staggering.

“They spend like a billion-dollar brand,” another source said and added “But the income doesn’t flow consistently enough to support that level of spending forever.”

Mukhtar Ahmed Junejo
Mukhtar Ahmed Junejo is the Deputy News Editor at The News International (Digital) with over 10 years of experience. He specialises in real-time reporting on the British Royal Family and analyses monarchy transitions, internal dynamics, and global media narratives. He also covers high-profile celebrity news and international human-interest stories.
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