Prince Harry appeared visibly pleased while attending a veterans support event in Washington D.C. on Wednesday. His public appearance occurred just hours after reports surfaced indicating his intention to return to the United Kingdom with his family for an extended period.
During the event, the Duke of Sussex, who served 10 years in the British Army, engaged with speakers and fellow veterans. He was seen in conversation with Sarah Verado, chief executive of The Independence Fund, a non-profit supporting wounded veterans and their families, and shared a light-hearted moment with William Bringer, another veteran.
News of the potential move to Britain emerged on Wednesday, with reports suggesting that both Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet are expected to enroll in a British school. King Charles was reportedly informed of his son's plans on Sunday.
The family is understood to be planning to reside in a non-royal household and will not be undertaking duties as working royals. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will retain their residence in Montecito, California, where they have lived since 2020, and also own a property in Portugal.
This reported relocation comes six years after the couple stepped down as working members of the British Royal Family. Their decision to leave public service was confirmed by Queen Elizabeth II following a 12-month review, stating they would not maintain a “half in, half out” approach to their duties. Subsequently, Prince Harry was stripped of his honorary military titles.
The initial announcement of their departure from royal duties in 2020, made without consulting King Charles, Queen Camilla, or Prince William, was met with significant criticism. The couple later permanently relocated to California in March 2020.
Reports have also resurfaced regarding earlier allegations of bullying made against Meghan when she was living in Britain, which she has vehemently denied, characterizing them as a smear campaign.
The relationship between Prince Harry and his father and brother, Prince William, is believed to have been strained since the Sussexes' departure from royal life. While there were hopes for reconciliation, particularly around significant family events and the late Princess Diana's memory, sources suggest that rifts remain.
However, sources indicate that King Charles is open to the prospect of increased family time. The family had a private reunion last month at Highgrove House in Gloucestershire, which marked a step towards healing the relationship between Harry and his father, especially following the King's cancer diagnosis.
Prince Harry has reportedly expressed a desire for his children to experience life in the UK. He hopes for a joint appearance with his father at next summer's Invictus Games, which could signify a significant step toward reconciliation.