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Helen Mirren applauds Meghan and Harry's decision to step down as royals

Dame Helen Mirren has said she “applauds” Prince Harry and his wife Meghan for stepping back from their royal life and positions, adding that the Duchess was a “fantastic addition to the royal family.”

The London-born actress, 74, who won an Oscar for taking on a role as Queen Elizabeth, has revealed she believes the pair’s decision to step down from carrying out official royal duties was a correct one.

Despite noting the Duke and Duchess would be a grave loss to the public, Mirren told Variety: “I think their instincts are absolutely right, and I applaud them for it. Hugely actually. Of course, it is complicated.

“Meghan Markle was a fantastic addition to the royal family - charming, did everything right, was gracious, was sweet-natured, and seemed to be ... Wow! What a lovely addition. Didn't seem to be neurotic...

“So, I think it is a loss in a way, but at the same time I think their instincts are absolutely correct.”

It comes after sportsman David Beckham spoke out about how “proud” he was of his royal friend following his marriage to Meghan Markle and the birth of their son Archie, who is nine months old.

The English soccer star, 44, praised the Duke of Sussex for “growing up” after announcing his decision to step back as senior royals and relocate to Canada.

Their plans to carry on the brand of SussexRoyal has also been abandoned.

Harry and Meghan have maintained their intention to split time between the UK and Canada while seeking full financial independence from the Firm.

The date of Megxit has been confirmed as April 1.

Tags:
meghan markle, Prince Harry, Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Helen Mirren, lifestyle