According to well-placed insiders, Anne — widely regarded as the hardest-working and most discreet senior royal — identified Meghan’s playbook early. “She saw the pattern: public victimhood, selective leaks, monetization of royal connections, and the slow build toward political relevance in America,” one source told The Times. “Anne didn’t wait for the next book or interview. She moved first.” Key to the strategy was ensuring Meghan’s children, Archie and Lilibet, would not receive full royal titles or public funding unless they were raised within the UK and under Palace oversight — a condition the Sussexes have so far rejected.

Anne’s influence extended beyond titles. She is said to have quietly advised King Charles on tightening security protocols for non-working royals, effectively blocking the Sussexes’ repeated attempts to regain taxpayer-funded protection. She also reportedly pushed for stricter oversight of royal-linked charities and commercial ventures, making it nearly impossible for Meghan to trade on her former HRH status without legal repercussions. “Anne doesn’t do drama,” another courtier explained. “She does outcomes. And the outcome here is clear: Meghan has no path back.”

The turning point came in late 2024, when private legal correspondence between the Sussexes’ team and the Palace was leaked to select media outlets. The documents allegedly showed Meghan’s lawyers pressing for a “revised settlement” that would include ongoing security funding and a pathway for occasional UK public appearances. Anne, sources say, personally reviewed the proposals and advised Charles to reject them outright. “She told him: if you give an inch, they’ll take the crown,” a source claimed.

The public fallout has been swift. Harry and Meghan’s recent Netflix projects have underperformed, their Spotify deal ended abruptly, and their Archewell Foundation has faced scrutiny over finances. Meanwhile, William and Anne have consolidated control over royal patronage and public image, sidelining any Sussex influence. “Anne has been the silent architect,” a royal commentator noted. “She’s protected Charles, protected William, and protected the institution — all without ever raising her voice.”

Meghan has not commented directly, but a spokesperson called the reports “speculative and inaccurate.” Friends say she feels “cornered and betrayed,” while Harry is reportedly “frustrated” by the lack of progress on security and reconciliation.

For Princess Anne, the victory is quiet but absolute. At 75, she remains one of the most respected and hardworking royals — and now, perhaps, the most decisive. The Sussexes’ dream of a hybrid role is over. The Palace has closed the door — and Anne appears to hold the key.