Why and when did Meghan leave the UK? Meghan Markle has always been open about how life changed after stepping away from royal duties. To become financially independent, split their time between the UK and North America, and step away from intense public and royal obligations. She left the UK during Megxit in early 2020, choosing a quieter, independent life in California with her family. Although she’s built a new chapter filled with creativity and lifestyle projects, the soft pop of Magic FM still lingers in memory.