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Sussexes' potential return to UK signals new chapter with King Charles III

From Le Figaro · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Ongoing story
  • Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly returning to live in the United Kingdom, potentially marking a new chapter in their relationship with the royal family.
  • The couple's arrival follows a brief July visit where they spent time with King Charles III, the first such family meeting in four years.
  • Tensions between Harry and the royal family have been high since the couple stepped down from royal duties in 2020, further strained by Harry's memoir.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly preparing to relocate back to the United Kingdom, a move that could signify a significant shift in their relationship with the British royal family. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, along with their children, are said to have arrived in the UK on Wednesday, August 26, according to media reports.

This surprising announcement comes shortly after a brief visit in early July, during which Harry and Meghan spent time with King Charles III. This meeting was reportedly the first family gathering involving the monarch in four years, suggesting a potential thaw in relations. King Charles III, informed of the Sussexes' plans on August 16, expressed his "delight" at the prospect of seeing his family personally, though the move does not guarantee their reintegration into official royal duties.

I don't know how much time there is left for my father. ... I would like to reconcile with my family. It is useless to continue fighting, life is precious.

— Prince HarrySpeaking in May 2025 about his relationship with his father and desire for family reconciliation.

The Sussexes' decision to potentially move back to the UK appears motivated by a desire to be closer to King Charles and allow their children to build stronger connections with their paternal family. This follows a period of considerable strain since the couple relinquished their royal roles and moved to California in 2020. The publication of Prince Harry's memoir, "Spare," in 2023 further exacerbated tensions within the family.

Prince Harry has previously expressed a desire for reconciliation, stating in May 2025, "I don't know how much time there is left for my father... I would like to reconcile with my family. It is useless to continue fighting, life is precious." For months, King Charles III had reportedly withheld contact with his son due to Harry's legal battle concerning his police protection in the UK. However, after Harry's request was denied, the King appeared to pivot towards reconnecting with his son. Despite the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC) again denying Harry's request for state-funded police protection during his July visit, a compromise seems to have been found to facilitate the family reunion.

is delighted to be able to see his family again on a personal basis

— King Charles IIIReported reaction to the news of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's potential return to the UK.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Le Figaro in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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