How Meghan Markle, Prince Harry Break Queen Elizabeth’s Rules Daily

They may have to follow certain rules when it comes to royal protocol, but Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are clearly doing some things their own way, even if it means breaking some of the rules Queen Elizabeth II herself has instilled within the monarchy on a daily basis.

In the documentary, “Meghan’s New Life: The Real Princess Diaries,” it’s noted how unlike Her Majesty, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are far more open with the public when they attend events, and often break with tradition by reaching out to shake hands with their admirers—something the Queen has frowned upon in the past due to not wanting to ruffle the public’ feathers.

“The Queen has a tradition of never, ever, shaking hands with people in crowds,” ABC Royals contributor Alastair Bruce said in the documentary, “The Queen’s view is that if you don’t touch anybody, then everyone is content really, and I don’t think anyone would dare to reach out and get her hand.”

However, Express UK notes that Prince Harry and the former actress do not follow that same rule, and are often seen embracing fans in the crowd, via handshakes and other measures. According to Bruce, it’s not only a sign of the pair doing things differently but also of how the younger generation is looking to modernize the monarchy as a whole.

“Hey, that’s the modern generation and that’s the way they connect. It’s a much more touchy-feely world, the world of Harry and Meghan,” he noted.

In addition to breaking that rule, Harry and Meghan are also often known to go against the tradition of not showing public displays of affection. While the Queen and Prince Philip have never been photographed even holding hands, and Kate Middleton and Prince William have only been seen doing so on rare occasions, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are far more comfortable openly cuddling one another and walking with their hands clasped in public.

The pair has even shared kisses in public as well, though they’ve kept those far more reserved.