When Prince Harry and Meghan Markle decided to stand down from royal obligations, Elton John was his “rock,” but a source told the Mirror that he was “shocked.”
According to a source, Elton John was “surprised” by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to depart the royal family.
Meghan and Harry announced in January 2020 that they would be stepping down from their responsibilities in the Royal Family.
During this period, Elton was Harry’s “rock,” but he was taken aback by the couple’s decision.
According to a source at the time, the singing icon was aware of what was going on long before Queen Elizabeth II.
“Elton chats to Harry and Meghan every day,” they stated. He’s a source of inspiration, almost a’motherly’ character. They made their decision on their own, but he provided a shoulder to rely on and listened while they discussed their intentions.
“He is a continuous support, especially to Meghan, and is quite protective of them both,” Elton John said of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision.
“He has become their pillar. Thus, while he would never tell them what to do, he has always been a listening ear and a source of encouragement.”
But, he was still “surprised” by the news, according to the MailOnline.
“The first Elton learned of the details and timing of Harry and Meghan’s plans was when the announcement went up on their Instagram,” they added.
“After many months of reflection and internal deliberations, we have chosen to make a move this year in beginning to carve out a progressive new role within this institution,” Meghan and Harry said at the time. As senior members of the Royal Family, we want to take a step back and endeavor to become financially independent, while being completely supportive of Her Majesty The Queen.
“We feel prepared to make this transition because of your encouragement, particularly over the last few years.”
They went on to say that they planned to “balance” their time between the UK and North America.
After meeting Harry’s late mother, Princess Diana, in 1981, Elton became good friends with her.
He sang Candle in the Wind during her burial, recreating a version of the classic song especially for the occasion.
Back in 2018, the Rocket Man singer sang at the Sussexes’ wedding.
