Harry and Meghan's Australia Return Faces Mixed Reception Amid Royal Tensions
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are preparing for a potentially contentious visit to Australia next month, marking their first trip to the country since their marriage nearly eight years ago. While their 2018 tour as newlyweds was met with enthusiastic crowds and widespread acclaim, experts now warn that the couple should brace for a more divided response during their mid-April engagements.
A Shift in Public Perception
Royal observers have noted that Harry and Meghan are "no longer assured of a warm welcome" in Australia, with the visit expected to become a "lightning rod" for the nation's republican movement. The debate surrounding King Charles III's role as head of state is likely to intensify, fueled by the Sussexes' presence. Additionally, monarchists who have been displeased by the couple's public criticisms of the royal family may express their discontent, further complicating the reception.
An insider commented, "I think there will be plenty of monarchists and republicans who won’t welcome Harry and Meghan’s visit. Any 'royal' visit, even by members of the family who no longer represent the King, will inevitably create debate about the monarchy." The source added that the trip could highlight the absence of more frequent visits by other senior royals, particularly the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Contrast with Past Success
The Sussexes' previous Australian tour in 2018 was widely regarded as a triumph, with massive crowds gathering to greet them in Sydney and other cities. Meghan, who was pregnant with their son Archie at the time, was praised for her informal and engaging approach to royal duties. Harry later reflected that the tour "really changed" his family's view of his wife, noting her natural aptitude for public service.
However, behind the scenes, tensions reportedly simmered. According to accounts in Valentine Low's book Courtiers: The Hidden Power Behind the Crown, Meghan struggled to understand the purpose of extensive walkabouts and hand-shaking events, despite enjoying the public attention. These underlying issues contributed to the couple's decision to step back from royal duties less than two years later, a move often referred to as "Megxit."
Current Visit Details and Implications
The Sussexes have confirmed they will travel to Australia in mid-April for a series of private, business, and philanthropic engagements. While their exact itinerary remains undisclosed, reports suggest they may visit Sydney and Melbourne, potentially meeting with military or veterans' groups due to Harry's connections. Meghan is also rumored to explore opportunities in Australia's podcasting scene, possibly appearing on the "Her Best Life" podcast or participating in related events.
It is unclear whether their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, will accompany them or remain at their home in Montecito, California. The timing of the visit adds complexity for King Charles and Prince William, as Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese previously extended an invitation to the Prince and Princess of Wales, though no firm plans have materialized.
Royal historian Tim Ewart observed, "Australia broke Harry and Meghan and was one of the catalysts for them leaving the Royal Family. She and Harry had expected they would get much more praise and recognition from that royal tour." This sentiment echoes Harry's own remarks during the 2021 Oprah Winfrey interview, where he cited the Australia tour as a turning point in their relationship with the monarchy.
Broader Context and Reactions
The couple's last joint appearance in the UK in 2022 saw them booed at St. Paul's Cathedral, indicating a shift in public sentiment that may extend to their Australian visit. Journalist Tom Sykes noted on his The Royalist substack that the Sussexes are likely to face scrutiny amid Australia's ongoing constitutional debates.
As the visit approaches, the focus will not only be on the couple's activities but also on the broader implications for the royal family and Australia's political landscape. The mixed reception anticipated underscores the enduring impact of the Sussexes' departure from royal life and their continued influence on public discourse.
