King Charles III was reportedly blindsided by the announcement of Prince Harry and Meghan's impending return to the United Kingdom. The monarch was informed only on Sunday about the Sussexes' planned return this month for what is described as an "extended period."
Prince Harry, 41, and Meghan, 45, are expected to relocate to Britain with their children, Archie and Lilibet, who are reportedly set to enroll in a British school. The family will reside in a non-royal residence and will not be undertaking official royal duties.
While sources indicate that the King welcomes the opportunity to see his youngest son and his family, it is understood that there will be no alteration to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's current royal status. Insiders emphasized that there is "no half in-half out option" and that the couple will remain private individuals and non-working members of the Royal Family, in line with their previously expressed wishes.
This decision comes approximately a month after Prince Harry visited his father in July. The Duke met with King Charles at his Highgrove House residence in Gloucestershire following an event related to the Invictus Games. This visit marked the first time Lilibet and Archie had seen the monarch since Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June 2022.
Recent statements from sources close to Harry indicated a desire to visit Britain frequently over the coming year. Following his reunion with his father, the Duke of Sussex reportedly felt "buoyed," "very happy," and "really energised."
Prince Harry had been scheduled to return to Britain in September for a week of engagements, including events for the Invictus Games and the WellChild charity. He had previously expressed a desire for a stronger connection to Britain and to see his family more often.
Sources have also suggested that Prince Harry hoped his father would join him at the Invictus Games next summer, an event he is determined to make the best ever. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who stepped down as senior royals in 2020 and moved to California, have also voiced their desire to introduce their children to their British heritage.
The family is expected to return within the next two weeks. While the exact duration of their stay is not yet known, the children's enrollment in a British school suggests a potentially long-term stay, possibly until their education is completed. The location of their new residence in the UK remains undisclosed for privacy reasons. The couple will retain their residence in Montecito, California, and also own a property in Portugal.