Elton John was reportedly left feeling “surprised” by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle ’s announcement that they were leaving the Royal Family.
A source told the Mirror that while Elton is close to Harry, he had been blindsided by the couple announcing their decision to step back from their roles within the royal family, despite being Harry's “rock” around the time of the announcement, in January 2020.
The singer still knew the couple were planning to exit the family long before Queen Elizabeth II did.
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The source said: "Elton speaks to Harry and Meghan every day. He’s an inspiration, an almost 'motherly' figure. They made their decision alone, but he’s a shoulder to lean on and listened as they spoke about their plans.
"He is a constant support, especially to Meghan, and is very protective of them both.
"He has been their rock. So while he would never tell them what to do, he has been a listening ear and support throughout."
The MailOnline were told that he was still "surprised" by the news, and that "The first that Elton heard of the details and timing of Harry and Meghan’s plans were when the announcement went up on their Instagram."
At the time Meghan and Harry released a statement that said: "After many months of reflection and internal discussions, we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution.
"We intend to step back as 'senior' members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen.
"It is with your encouragement, particularly over the last few years, that we feel prepared to make this adjustment."
Elton performed at the Sussexes’ wedding in 2018. He was also a close friend of Harry's late mother, Princess Diana, going on to perform Candle in the Wind at her funeral.
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