Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are preparing to relocate to the UK with their children by the end of the month, more than six years after leaving Britain for a new life in North America. The unexpected move has prompted speculation about the true motivations behind the decision.
Daily Mail columnist Sarah Vine, speaking on the Daily Mail's Palace Confidential, has suggested there may be a deeper reason behind the relocation, revolving around Harry's standing in America.
Royal Status as a Valuable Asset
Ms Vine claimed the Sussexes' royal status remains their most valuable asset, but cautioned that its worth has been diminishing since they stepped back from royal duties.
She said: "Harry and Meghan's currency is that they're members of the Royal Family. Yes, they're rebellious members of the Royal Family. Yes, they're disruptors. They like to class themselves that. But nevertheless, it's their royal value that's of interest to people."
Ms Vine contended that this "royal value" had become increasingly difficult for the couple to preserve while residing in California, reports the Mirror.
A 'Land Grab' and Reclaiming Birthright
"And I think this coming back to the UK is their way of basically getting their trotters back under that royal table," she said. Characterising the move as "a land grab", she suggested one of Harry's primary concerns might be that his prospects in America are starting to diminish.
"And, you know, it's a land grab because I think that one of Harry's big concerns is that he kind of run out of road in America. There was sort of no more options for him."
Ms Vine believes being back on British soil could give Harry a chance to restore his standing within royal circles. "Whereas if he comes back here, it's much easier for him when he's on the ground to start the process of reclaiming what he would consider to be his birthright and reshaping the royal family in a way that he would like it shaped."
Family Relocation Plans
Harry and Meghan are anticipated to relocate with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, who have reportedly been enrolled in British schools ahead of the new academic year. The family is expected to settle somewhere outside London, though their precise destination remains unconfirmed.
The couple are also expected to hold on to their properties in Montecito and Portugal, while Meghan will continue operating her lifestyle brand, As Ever, from Britain.
The relocation comes just weeks after the Sussexes brought their children to visit King Charles at Highgrove, marking the first occasion Harry and Meghan had visited him with the children in four years.
The King is understood to welcome the possibility of enjoying more private time with his grandchildren, yet there is no indication the Sussexes will return as working royals. The couple's status is expected to remain unchanged, with no "half-in, half-out" arrangement being considered.
Potential Impact on Brotherly Relations
Ms Vine also predicted the return could impact Harry's relationship with his brother, Prince William. "We know that he has very different views from the future king, William, on this," she said, suggesting she could envisage a "Game of Thrones-style schism between the two courts".
She cautioned that a rivalry between an unofficial Sussex camp and the future royal household of William and Catherine "has the potential to be very, very toxic."
