Fewer than a quarter of Britons believe Prince Harry and Meghan Markle should move back to the United Kingdom, according to a new YouGov poll. The survey of over 5,000 people found that 21% of the public think the couple should return, while 33% believe they should not. The question of their return has become a subject of public debate following reports that the Sussexes are planning an extended stay in the duke's home country before the end of the month, with their children, Archie and Lilibet, already enrolled in a British school.
This potential relocation comes six years after the couple stepped down as 'senior' members of the royal family in 2020, a period marked by estrangement from some royal relatives and public criticism. The poll data reveals a generational divide in opinion, with only 20% of those aged 65 and older supporting a return, compared to 24% of 18 to 24-year-olds. A significant portion, 45% of Britons, remained unsure.
Sources insist the move is not part of a plan for the Sussexes to rejoin the royal fold. King Charles, who is undergoing cancer treatment, was reportedly informed of the move three days before it became public and is understood to welcome the opportunity for more private family time. However, their status as private individuals will remain unchanged, with no alteration to their roles.
Harry and Meghan will retain their homes in Montecito, California, and Portugal, and the duchess will continue to operate her business, As Ever. The couple's relationship with other members of the royal family has been strained, particularly Harry's relationship with his brother, Prince William. The two couples, once dubbed the 'Fab Four,' have not operated a joint household since March 2019, and Harry's 2023 memoir, 'Spare,' detailed accusations against his brother and other family members.
Recent approval ratings also reflect public sentiment, with a YouGov poll last month indicating that only 22% of Britons view Meghan favorably, while 33% hold a positive view of Harry. The couple's departure from senior royal duties in 2020 led to them establishing a permanent home in California by March 2020, ceasing to use their HRH styles. Allegations of bullying against Meghan during her time in Britain, which she has vehemently denied, surfaced earlier this year and were reportedly published shortly before her and Harry's 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey about 'Megxit.'
Prince Harry was recently pictured in Washington D.C. on Wednesday night, shortly after news of his planned return to Britain emerged. He is scheduled to attend a WellChild Awards event in the UK next month, where he was expected to stay at Buckingham Palace. His last visit to the UK in July included a meeting with King Charles at his Highgrove home, marking the first time the King had spent time with Archie and Lilibet in four years. It is speculated that Harry misses the UK and desires for his children to experience life in his home country.