Despite Meghan Markle's Rachel Zane leaving after Markle's decision to leave her role in Suits and show business altogether was due to her then- marriage to Prince Harry. Her decision to exit the show was previously known, allowing the writers to craft a satisfying send-off to her character. To write her out, however, Suits also had to bid Mike goodbye, considering his relationship with Rachel. After finally tying the knot, the couple opted to leave the Big Apple for Seattle. Following their departure, Suits continued for two more years, which posed questions about how the fan-favorite duo was doing in the Pacific Northwest.

Mike and Rachel in Suits

Following their much-delayed wedding, which was hindered by Mike's time in prison and tumultuous arc to become a true lawyer, the couple finally tied the knot in the Suits season 7 finale, which was attended by their closest friends and family. Just as the party was winding down, Mike broke the news to Harvey that he and Rachel were leaving New York to start a new life in Seattle and run a class-action lawsuit-focused firm. He explained that it was a decision that they didn't make lightly but were totally committed to; somehow, it was their way of making up for all the years he functioned as a fake lawyer.

How Suits Explains Rachel's Absence In Suits Season 9

Rachel Zane sitting in court in Suits

Suits season 8 panned out with very little to no reference to the newlyweds in an effort to settle into the show's new normal. That being said, with the legal drama ending in season 9, USA Network had to bring back Mike a couple of times for a proper send-off. Show creator Aaron Korsh explained that he opted not to ask Markle back in "respect her new life." This was despite ideas of even doing just a voice cameo, which wouldn't have been too big of an imposition compared to an actual physical appearance.

Mike did casually mention that his wife was doing so well in Seattle, although he didn't offer specific details. By the end of Suits' run, Harvey and Donna ended up tying the knot as well. Despite a previous dispute between Mike and his mentor, he was there to witness the long-overdue union. Although Rachel was once again absent, Suits didn't make a big deal out of it, opting to focus on the wedding. Ultimately, Harvey and Donna eventually followed them on the West Coast after rigorous years in New York.

Source: Deadline