Prince William and Princess Kate are reportedly stunned by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's decision to move back to Britain, according to a new report from Vanity Fair.
An insider close to the family said the timing feels especially strange, since this period was supposed to be a good one for the Prince of Wales. Kate is doing well after previously sharing that she is in remission from cancer, and their eldest son, Prince George, is preparing to start at Eton. Instead of enjoying that moment, the source claimed the couple now feels thrown off balance by Harry's news.
The insider went as far as to say the situation has completely disrupted their plans, adding that William now feels he has to stay alert, unsure of what his brother might do next.
Harry, 41, and Meghan, 45, surprised royal watchers when word got out that they were leaving their California home to resettle in the UK. Reports this week indicate the couple has already started rebuilding their life in England. Sources also revealed that their two children, seven-year-old Archie and five-year-old Lilibet, are set to begin classes at a school in the Cotswolds within days.
Behind the scenes, William is said to have had a direct, private conversation with King Charles about the Sussexes coming home. The pair reportedly agree on one major point: Harry and Meghan should not return to official royal duties.
A source told Vanity Fair that William is uneasy about why his brother's family made such a fast decision to relocate, and wants confirmation from his father that nothing about the current royal setup will shift because of it. A representative for Harry and Meghan has confirmed the couple has no intention of resuming royal work.
As for the King, 77, he is said to be genuinely pleased that Harry is back nearby, since it means more time with his son and grandchildren. At the same time, insiders suggest Charles is uneasy about Harry possibly reopening his long legal dispute over UK security arrangements, fearing the public drama could start all over again.
Despite the move, reports indicate Harry and Meghan plan to hold onto both their Montecito estate in California and their vacation home in Portugal.
Key Takeaways
- Prince William and Princess Kate are reportedly caught off guard by Harry and Meghan's return to the UK.
- The timing feels especially disruptive, arriving just as Kate's health improves and George prepares for Eton.
- William is said to be watching closely, unsure what his brother's next move will be.
- Archie and Lilibet are expected to start school in the Cotswolds soon.
- William and King Charles reportedly agree that Harry and Meghan should not resume royal duties.
- Charles is said to be happy to have Harry closer but wary of a renewed security dispute.
- The Sussexes are keeping their homes in both Montecito and Portugal.
