The world is in a frenzy after news that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are stepping back from the British royals for a “commoner” life.

Here is a timeline of the signs that the pair were “over” the royal life:

Wanting out

While the latest news sparked a debate on social media, an interview with Daily Mail from 2017 which resurfaced, showed that Prince Harry had been over his royal duties, long before marrying Markle in 2018.

In the interview, Harry admitted to once considering giving up his title, saying: “I felt I wanted out, but then decided to stay in and work out a role for myself.” 

'Just Harry'

The 35-year-old also previously told the publication that his time away from royal life in 2007 was the “best escape I’ve ever had”.

“Being in the army was the best escape I’ve ever had. I felt as though I was really achieving something.

“I have a deep understanding of all sorts of people from different backgrounds and felt I was part of a team.”

He also said that while in the army, he “wasn't a prince but just Harry”.

Moving out

Just after welcoming their baby Archie, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex moved out of Kensington Palace and set up their own household at Frogmore Cottage on the Windsor estate.

Added to that, according to CNN, they announced that they were splitting from the Royal Foundation, a charity Prince Harry and Prince William established together in 2009.

The couple later launched their own charity, Sussex Royal: The Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, primarily for their philanthropic work.

Skipping Christmas

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex celebrated Archie’s first Christmas up north in Canada along with Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland, instead of with the Royal family in Sandringham.

According to a Vancouver Sun report, Meghan and Harry ditched the family tradition for hiking in Horth Hill Regional Park.

Social media reactions

The hashtag #Megxit topped Twitter's trend list as many Tweeps had a lot to say.

Here is a snapshot of some of the reactions: