Last week, Prince Harry's visit to Canada for Remembrance Day events coincided with Prince William's trip to Brazil for the Earthshot Prize and COP30 climate summit, leading to an awkward diary clash. The timing was seen as highlighting ongoing tensions between the Sussexes and the royal family.
Meanwhile, Meghan Markle announced her return to acting with a role in the upcoming Hollywood film Close Personal Friends, co-starring Lily Collins and Brie Larson. The former Suits actress, who quit acting after joining the royal family, is reported to play herself in the movie, which insiders describe as a potential full-time comeback after an eight-year hiatus.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams says the events point to a growing divide between Harry and Meghan. 'Meghan's decision to appear as herself in a Hollywood comedy film definitely emphasises her shift towards the US,' he said. 'But Harry still feels very deeply about his homeland and would like to spend more time in the UK. The same cannot be said for Meghan, so there’s a clear divergence in opinions there.'
Harry recently wrote an essay titled The Bond, The Banter, The Bravery: What It Means To Be British, in which he described missing the 'banter of the mess, the clubhouse, the pub, the stands' and said, 'I love it.' Fitzwilliams noted that Harry would like to see more of his father, King Charles III, especially given his public comments about not knowing how long his father will live.
Meghan, however, is focused on building her brand in the US and distancing herself from royal controversies, including those surrounding Prince Andrew. A source on the film set described Meghan as 'very relaxed and happy' and 'very sweet and down to earth.'
Prince Harry's team dismissed suggestions of an intentional clash with William, stating that the Toronto events were planned nearly a year ago and that the duke cannot move Remembrance dates.
