Prince William Said to Remain Skeptical About Harry and Meghan's Return to the UK
According to unnamed sources, Prince William was less optimistic than King Charles that his brother Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's move back to Britain would avoid renewed family tensions, and the brothers have not spoken since the relocation.
Prince William is reported to have been less confident than King Charles that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's return to the United Kingdom would proceed without reigniting past family disputes. An unnamed source told a U.S. tabloid that while there was "cautious optimism" about the Sussexes' homecoming, William felt the concerns were justified and has not spoken with Harry since the couple arrived in late August with their children, Archie and Lilibet.
The couple, who have lived primarily in California for more than six years, resumed residence in Britain but remain non-working members of the royal family. A letter authorized by King Charles, issued by Lord Chamberlain Richard Benyon, reiterated that Harry and Meghan do not carry out official duties for the sovereign and will continue their charitable and commercial activities independently, a status described by Reuters as "akin to private citizens with commercial and charitable interests."
The guidance, which was released to the press shortly after being sent to the Sussexes' representatives, did not alter their titles or create a new constitutional arrangement. It simply confirmed the framework already in place since their 2020 decision to step back from royal duties.
Despite sharing the same country, there is no indication that a meeting between the brothers has been arranged. Sources said William and Catherine were surprised by the speed of the Sussexes' move and are adopting a "wait-and-see" approach. Harry, meanwhile, has a schedule of public engagements, including the WellChild Awards in London on September 21 and the inaugural Invictus Spirit Awards before traveling to New York for the Clinton Global Initiative later in the month.
Both princes have declined to comment publicly on the reported private dynamics, and no official statements have confirmed the alleged "I told you so" sentiment attributed to William.