Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly planning an imminent return to the United Kingdom with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. The couple, who stepped back as senior members of the British royal family in January 2020, have not yet publicly confirmed the reasons for the potential move.
According to reports, the family of four is expected to relocate quickly, with Archie and Lilibet scheduled to begin school in the U.K. in September. While the specific location of their new residence remains private, sources indicate they will not be moving into a royal property. The couple was previously asked to vacate Frogmore Cottage, their U.K. home, in 2023 after the publication of Harry's memoir, "Spare."
Speculation about the move's reasons includes a desire to be closer to King Charles III, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2024. Prince Harry has previously spoken about his father's health and their strained communication. In a BBC interview last year, Harry expressed uncertainty about how much time his father had left and noted difficulties stemming from security issues. While he and Charles were not speaking at the time of that interview, reports suggest they have since reconciled.
Harry has also expressed a deep affection for his homeland and a wish to share it with his children, a desire reportedly hampered by security concerns. Last year, he told the BBC, "I can’t see a world in which I would bring my wife and children back to the U.K. at this point." He further elaborated on his love for the country despite past grievances.
The Sussexes brought their children to the U.K. in July, where they had a private meeting with King Charles and Queen Camilla. Their current residences include a home in Montecito, California, and a vacation property in Portugal.
A YouGov poll released on Thursday indicated that 44% of Britons are undecided about the couple's potential return, with 33% opposed and 21% in favor.