Since stepping away from the British royal family, Prince Harry has made only a few visits to the UK.
His most recent trip in February included a brief meeting with King Charles, which reportedly angered Queen Camilla as it was done without Palace approval. Notably, Harry has not met with his brother, Prince William, or his sister-in-law, Kate Middleton.
The relationship between Harry, Meghan, and the royal family remains strained, further complicated by the couple’s public criticisms through interviews, documentaries, and Harry’s memoir Spare. Given the serious nature of the allegations, many doubt the possibility of reconciliation. However, there are indications that Kate Middleton might consider reuniting with Harry under specific conditions.
Royal Family’s Health Struggles
Currently, the royal family is facing significant challenges, with both King Charles and Kate Middleton battling cancer. The King was diagnosed following surgery for an enlarged prostate, shortly after Kate underwent an abdominal procedure that led to weeks of speculation about her health.
On March 22, Kate publicly addressed her condition in a heartfelt video, explaining the time it took to recover from surgery and share the news with her children. She reassured the public that she was “well” and “getting stronger every day.”
Following Kate’s surgery and later her cancer announcement, Harry and Meghan reportedly reached out twice. However, many believe they learned about her diagnosis at the same time as the public.
Harry, once close to Kate, is said to be in a “painful place” and regrets writing about her in Spare. Royal expert Tessa Dunlop commented, “When you discover your sister-in-law has cancer and you’ve written things that can’t be taken back, it’s quite painful.” She also noted that Harry and Meghan’s previous criticism of the monarchy now puts them in a delicate position.
Harry’s Return to the UK
Harry is set to return to the UK on May 10 for a special service at St Paul’s Cathedral marking the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games. With his visit, speculation is growing about whether this could be an opportunity for reconciliation with the royal family.
It is widely believed that Harry and William have not spoken in months, and the same may be true for Harry and Kate despite the get-well messages he and Meghan sent.
Royal expert Mark Dolan has suggested that the royal family should welcome Harry back warmly, even offering him accommodations at Buckingham Palace—a request that had been previously denied, forcing him to stay in a hotel. “Harry should be staying at Buckingham Palace… He should be a guest of honor,” Dolan stated, adding that it was time to bring back the “prodigal son.”
However, royal commentator Ingrid Seward remains skeptical about a reconciliation between Harry and William, saying that a meeting between them is “highly unlikely” given the hurtful comments made in Spare.
She noted that while William may recognize that Harry would want to see Kate, it remains uncertain whether she has the energy to help heal the rift between the brothers. “If the King asks, she will do it, but Charles is unlikely to put such a burden on his beloved daughter-in-law. The timing must be right, and now is not that time.”
With Harry’s upcoming visit, the question remains: will this be the moment that brings him closer to his family again?