Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have made the decision to relocate back to the United Kingdom with their children, as confirmed by Buckingham Palace on Wednesday. The move, which includes their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, will see them living as private citizens in the UK. Although the exact timing of their return is not confirmed, reports suggest they aim to be back in time for the children to start school in September.
The couple had stepped away from their full-time royal duties and departed the UK in March 2020, eventually settling in California after a brief stay in Canada. Their relationship with the Royal Family had soured due to public criticisms of the monarchy and the family itself. Harry’s comments, particularly directed at his father and brother Prince William, led to a breakdown in their relationship.
In an interview in February 2021 with James Corden, Harry expressed the challenges they faced and his determination to prioritize his family’s well-being. Despite difficulties, he emphasized that he never intended to “walk away.” The shift back to the UK was partly influenced by changes in security arrangements that impacted their ability to bring their children to Britain.
Harry was also involved in a privacy lawsuit against The Daily Mail’s publisher, which he lost along with other high-profile figures in July. Following the court decision, Harry criticized the outcome, referring to it as a “whitewash.” Despite setbacks, there appeared to be a thaw in relations with his father, King Charles, as they met last September after a 20-month gap. The family’s recent visit to Britain allowed for King Charles to reunite with his grandchildren, marking a positive turn in their relationship.
King Charles, who had undergone cancer treatment in early 2024, showed positive progress, prompting a transition to a precautionary phase in his medical care. The King welcomed the news of Harry and Meghan’s relocation, anticipating more private interactions with the Sussex family moving forward.