Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are reportedly preparing for a return to the United Kingdom after six years in the United States, with the timing coinciding with potential shifts in Meghan's acting career. An offer for the Duchess to star in Guy Ritchie's Netflix series, 'The Gentlemen,' is said to have been withdrawn.
The Sussexes' decision to return to Britain is believed to stem from a combination of factors, including developments in Meghan's acting career. A source indicated that "the stars aligned" for the move, citing a perceived acting opportunity for Meghan and the desire to be closer to family, including King Charles and members of the Spencer family.
However, the reported acting role for Meghan in 'The Gentlemen' appears to have fallen through. Former Vanity Fair editor Tina Brown suggested that producers may have been deterred by a potential public backlash following the couple's return to the UK, particularly concerning security arrangements. Meghan had reportedly been holding out for a specific role, and the withdrawal of this opportunity is seen as a significant development.
While the Sussexes' stay in the UK is anticipated, sources suggest their presence may be temporary, with plans to potentially relocate to Canada and Australia afterward. Prince Harry is also reportedly keen to reconnect with his late mother's side of the family, the Spencers. His uncle, Earl Spencer, had reportedly offered a residence at Althorp, the family estate, though a source close to Earl Spencer stated that Harry had not made such a request and had already made his own arrangements.
The reunion with the Royal Family is expected to be complex, as Prince Harry and his brother, Prince William, have reportedly remained estranged since 2020. While King Charles was reportedly informed of the Sussexes' impending return shortly before the news became public, Prince William and his wife, Catherine, Princess of Wales, are currently on holiday with their children at Balmoral and have not publicly commented on the situation. Sources indicate that Prince William has expressed no desire for reconciliation with his brother at this time.
Meghan and Harry's return to the UK follows a period of significant changes since they stepped down as senior royals in 2020. The couple's motivations and plans continue to be a subject of public interest and speculation.