There has been increasing speculation that Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, may be considering a return to the royal fold after stepping back from royal duties in early 2020. While Harry’s decision to distance himself from the royal family was initially driven by personal and professional reasons, including his desire for privacy and independence, new reports suggest he is now brainstorming ways to re-enter the fold. However, the idea appears to have created tension with his wife, Meghan Markle, who is said to be “apprehensive” about the prospect of returning to royal life.
Prince Harry’s transition away from royal duties was one of the most dramatic moments in modern British royal history. The couple’s move to the United States, coupled with the candid revelations made in interviews and Harry’s memoir, Spare, caused a significant rift with the royal family. These revelations, alongside their pursuit of personal ventures and business interests, such as the couple’s deals with Netflix and Spotify, seemed to signify a permanent departure from their royal roles.
However, as time has passed, there are signs that Prince Harry is contemplating a return to royal engagements. Reports indicate that Harry may be seeking a way to reconcile with his family and potentially resume some of his royal duties, especially after the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the ascension of King Charles III. The Duke of Sussex, known for his charitable work and military service, has maintained a sense of duty and responsibility, and some sources suggest that he could be considering how he can balance his personal life and career with royal obligations once again.
Despite this, Meghan Markle is said to be less enthusiastic about the idea of rejoining the royal family. Her apprehension stems from several factors, not least the emotional toll and media scrutiny the couple has faced since they stepped away from the monarchy. Meghan, who has been outspoken about her struggles with the British press and the treatment of the couple by some royal insiders, may be hesitant to return to the very environment that contributed to their decision to step back in the first place.
There is also the matter of the couple’s two young children, Archie and Lilibet. Meghan may be concerned about the impact of royal life on their upbringing, particularly in terms of public exposure and the ongoing scrutiny of their family. Having experienced life on her own terms in the United States, where she and Harry have had more control over their narrative, it is understandable that Meghan might be apprehensive about a return to the rigid expectations of royal duty.
Furthermore, the couple’s previous experiences with royal life were marked by personal strains, which have only been highlighted in public discussions. Meghan’s relationship with other members of the royal family, particularly with her in-laws, has been a subject of much controversy, and it seems unlikely that these tensions have dissipated entirely.
Prince Harry’s potential return to royal duties is a complicated issue with personal, professional, and emotional layers. While he appears open to reconciliation and playing a role in the royal family’s future, Meghan Markle’s concerns underscore the complexity of their situation. For now, it seems that the couple will continue to navigate this challenging crossroads, balancing their ambitions with their family’s well-being and the expectations of the British monarchy.