Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's upcoming return to the United Kingdom for an extended period is expected to present considerable challenges for Prince William and the British monarchy, according to royal reporter Tom Sykes.
Sykes told Page Six that the move, planned for later this month, is "a huge slap in the face for William" and "does also create serious risks for the monarchy." He cited the ongoing feud between the brothers, suggesting the relocation will lead to a "huge succession" of difficulties for the Prince of Wales. Potential scenarios, such as King Charles III inviting Harry to family gatherings like Christmas or Remembrance Day celebrations, could create further complications.
Sources confirmed to Page Six that King Charles III was aware of the couple's intentions, learning of their plans on a Sunday. Sykes expressed concern that the King "allowed himself to be manipulated into welcoming them home," stating that he believes the late Queen Elizabeth II would not have permitted such a move.
This decision marks a significant moment for Harry and Meghan, who, along with their children Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5, will be enrolled in school in the UK. The couple, who famously left the UK in 2020 and relinquished their roles as working royals in a move dubbed "Megxit," have been living in Montecito, California, in a $14.5 million estate they intend to keep.
Sources indicated that the couple's decision to return was motivated by a desire to be closer to King Charles and to allow their children to build family relationships. Harry previously stated in 2025 that he "can’t see a world in which I would bring my wife and children back to the UK at this point," particularly while awaiting a review of his security by the Government committee Ravec.
Sykes suggested that professional and perhaps financial motivations are at play, stating that "things haven’t worked out in America the way they thought they would." He speculated that "if there was another hundred-million-dollar deal on the table they wouldn’t be rushing home."
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's return comes after Prince Harry's reunion with his father, King Charles III, in July amid the monarch's cancer diagnosis. Harry had previously expressed concerns about his father's health, telling the BBC last year, "I don’t know how much longer my father has."