Annabel Fenwick Elliott, a writer who previously lived in the United States for six years before returning to the UK, has cautioned that a potential move back to Britain for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle could prove disastrous. Elliott shared her personal experience of returning to England after attempting to rebuild her life in America, suggesting that the reasons the Duke and Duchess of Sussex cited for leaving the UK in 2020 remain relevant and have potentially worsened.
Elliott described her own departure from the UK in her early twenties as a dramatic exit driven by personal turmoil. After establishing a life in New York, where she found America to be a welcoming environment for those seeking a fresh start, she experienced a profound sense of homesickness. This longing for English pubs, historic architecture, and a particular style of banter, she noted, began to overshadow the positive aspects of her American life.
Upon her return to the UK, Elliott found the national mood to be divisive, particularly in the wake of the Brexit referendum. She also encountered personal challenges, including strained relationships with former friends and a failed reconciliation with a previous partner. Her experience led her to move back in with her mother and led to feelings of disappointment.
Drawing a parallel to the Sussexes, Elliott posits that the couple may face similar deflation. She argues that the British public is not as forgiving as Americans and is less inclined to feign affection. Elliott also raised questions about the couple's potential daily activities and Harry's ability to reconnect with his former social circle, mentioning his once-close friendship with Tom 'Skippy' Inskip, whom he has not been seen with since his wedding.
Elliott suggested that Meghan might find it more challenging to build new friendships in England compared to the United States, and that her ventures, such as her lifestyle brand 'As Ever,' might not achieve the same level of celebrity endorsement as they did in Hollywood. She speculated that the media and entertainment industries in the UK are smaller and less lucrative.
Based on her own experience, Elliott predicts that the Sussexes, much like herself after her initial return, may eventually depart the UK again. She believes they might use Britain as a base for travel, with Meghan reportedly planning to 'come and go' between the UK, California, and other locations. Elliott concluded by stating that despite her criticisms of the UK government, she loves her country, but ultimately found her happiest period in the US and anticipates the Sussexes may follow suit in seeking a return to America.