On February 6, Prince Harry made a swift journey to the U.K. following Buckingham Palace’s disclosure of King Charles III’s cancer diagnosis.
“Harry was focused on catching up and spending quality time together,” says a source, noting that the meeting — which took place at Clarence House, Charles and Queen Camilla’s London home — was “amicable and warm.” Adds a second source: “Charles was extremely touched by Harry’s gesture.”
Members of the royal inner circle are optimistic that the meeting between Harry and Charles signifies the beginning of a reconciliation between father and son, as well as within the broader family. Harry, 39, and his wife Meghan Markle, 42, have been estranged from his 75-year-old father, as well as his brother Prince William, 41, and Kate Middleton, 42, since their departure from the U.K. in early 2020.
The first source suggests that recent health challenges within the royal family, particularly Kate’s recovery from abdominal surgery on January 17, could serve as a catalyst for reconciliation. “They can use this as a starting point,” the source states. “The consensus is that life is too short, and there’s hope this will lead to repairing the rift.”
The gap between Harry and his relatives has significantly widened since his and Meghan’s high-profile relocation to America, dubbed “Megxit” by the media. In a groundbreaking TV interview in 2021, the couple accused a member of the royal family of racism and openly addressed Meghan and Kate’s well-known disagreement over Charlotte’s flower girl dress ahead of their 2018 wedding.
In their Netflix docuseries, “Harry & Meghan,” the couple alleged that “the institution” had played a role in perpetuating negative stories in the British press. Additionally, in Harry’s 2023 memoir, “Spare,” he accused his brother of physically attacking him during a 2019 argument over Meghan.
Despite the significant divide, Harry and Charles have been gradually reestablishing their connection in recent months. A third source reveals that Charles has been “eager to make up with Harry for a while.”
The second source describes their recent reunion as deeply emotional. “Harry jumped on the first plane possible,” the source reveals. “Meghan fully supported Harry’s decision to be there. He had the opportunity to express his love to his father and gain a better understanding of Charles’s situation.”
Amid speculations that Harry’s brief visit was a PR strategy, the first source explains that its brevity was primarily due to Harry’s discomfort in that environment. Additionally, the second source mentions that it’s challenging for Harry to be away from Meghan and their two children, Archie, 4, and Lilibet, 2, for extended periods.
According to sources, Meghan is actively involved in reconciliation efforts. “Meghan has reached out to Kate and Charles,” the first source reveals. “Steps are being taken to mend fences.” The second source adds, “Meghan fully supports Harry in this, and she wishes the best for the royals, including Kate.”
Kate is open to reconciliation, particularly with Harry, though she still harbors some hurt feelings over past events involving Meghan and Charlotte. However, she is willing to move forward. The third source suggests that Kate will ultimately follow William’s lead in the matter, expressing that she “really misses Harry” and sees him as a brother figure.
Despite their strained relationship, William still cares deeply for Harry. However, the past few years have been challenging for him due to Harry’s accusations against him and the monarchy. The first source notes that while Harry remains committed, the next move lies with William.
Charles is heavily invested in ending the family feud. Although his cancer was caught early, the health scare has prompted him to reassess his priorities. “Charles’ greatest wish is for the family to reconcile,” the second source emphasizes. “Health and peace are his top priorities.”