Prince Harry and Meghan are returning to the United Kingdom with their children, as confirmed by Buckingham Palace on Wednesday. The news initially surfaced in reports by The Telegraph and The Sun. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, along with their children Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5, will be residing as private individuals. Although the exact timing of their return to Britain is unspecified, media sources suggest it will be in time for the children to commence school in September.
Having stepped away from their full-time royal duties and departed the U.K. in March 2020, Harry and Meghan settled in California following a brief stay in Canada. The decision to relocate back to the UK comes amidst strained relations with the Royal Family, stemming from public criticisms directed at the monarchy and family members. Harry’s remarks, particularly regarding his father and elder brother, Prince William, contributed to a significant rift in their relationship. In a candid interview on The Late, Late Show with James Corden in February 2021, Harry expressed the challenging circumstances that prompted their move, emphasizing his commitment to safeguarding his family.
Furthermore, Harry was embroiled in a privacy lawsuit against the publisher of The Daily Mail, along with other prominent British personalities. Despite the legal setback in July, Harry remained steadfast in his defense of Meghan, citing the distress caused by the newspaper’s actions. Following the court ruling, Harry criticized the outcome as a biased judgment that favored The Daily Mail.
Recent developments indicate a potential reconciliation within the Royal Family, as Harry reunited with his father, King Charles, after a prolonged period of estrangement. During a visit to Britain in July, King Charles had the opportunity to meet his grandchildren for the first time in years. The Palace acknowledged the King’s awareness of Harry’s relocation plans and expressed anticipation for increased family interactions on a personal level. Amidst health concerns, King Charles has been undergoing treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer since early 2024, with positive responses prompting a transition to a precautionary phase as of last December.