Elton John was "surprised" by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's decision to leave the royal family, a source has said.
Back in January 2020, Meghan and Harry announced they were stepping back from their roles within the Royal Family.
Elton was Harry's "rock" during this time, but he was shocked at the couple's decision.
A source told the Mirror at the time that the singing legend knew about what was going on long before Queen Elizabeth II did.
They 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."
However, the MailOnline were told that he was still "surprised" by the news.
They said: "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."
They then explained that they planned to "balance" their time between the United Kingdom and North America.
Elton was close friends with Harry's late mother Princess Diana after meeting her in 1981.
At her funeral, he performed Candle in the Wind, rewriting a version of the hit song specially for the ceremony.
The Rocket Man singer also performed at the Sussexes’ wedding back in 2018.
