King Charles, Prince William United on One Front Regarding Prince Harry, Meghan Markle
The father and son reportedly agree that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will not represent the royal family.
King Charles and Prince William are in agreement on one significant point concerning Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's presence in the United Kingdom: neither wishes for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to represent the royal family.
Author Russell Myers told People magazine that Charles and William are "completely united on the Sussexes not representing the royal family," adding that the pair are "without a doubt … in sync" on this matter.
King Charles, 77, previously stated that his younger son, Harry, and his wife, Meghan, are "private citizens" and not working royals. In a statement, the monarch noted, "It is well known that in January 2020 the Duke and Duchess stepped down from undertaking representative duties on behalf of the Sovereign." Reports indicate that Harry and Meghan have taken issue with this characterization, viewing themselves as "public figures."
Prince William, 44, has not publicly commented on his brother's return or their father's statement. However, it is understood that William believes Charles's ongoing communication with Harry is a personal matter for the King. As for himself, the Prince of Wales reportedly intends to maintain no relationship with his brother and sister-in-law, "in a working or private capacity whatsoever."
Sources suggest that William has "washed his hands" of his brother. Royal expert Kinsey Schofield commented that William is focused on "his own family to protect and his responsibilities as Prince of Wales," referencing his children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Schofield described Harry and Meghan's return as an "unwelcome distraction" amid Prince George's new academic chapter at Eton College.
Since arriving in the U.K., Harry and Meghan have faced several security-related incidents. Most recently, Meghan Markle's personal mobile number was reportedly leaked in a school parents' text thread, and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, were removed from their prep school after only two days due to traffic concerns.
Representatives for King Charles, Prince William, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle did not immediately respond to requests for comment.