Meghan Markle's decision to bring her children to the UK last month has been interpreted as a clear signal of her desire to rejoin the royal fold. However, commentators suggest that the couple's past actions may have made a return impossible.
A Stark Antagonistic Position
Since stepping down as senior royals in 2020, Meghan and Prince Harry have made accusations of racism, claims of rudeness, and repeatedly aired private grievances, creating a starkly antagonistic relationship with the royal family. The late Queen famously rejected their attempt at a half-in, half-out arrangement, and the subsequent split has seemed irreparable.
Yet Meghan's recent visit, bringing Archie, seven, and Lilibet, five, for the first time in four years, suggests a desire to ingratiate herself with the royals and remind the public of her children's royal lineage.
The Althorp Photo
A notable photo from the trip showed Archie, Lilibet, and Harry walking through the gardens of Althorp Estate, Princess Diana's childhood home. The image, released on Meghan's Instagram, came shortly after briefings about King Charles's hopes that the couple would remain discreet about the visit, hinting at the real motivation behind the family's return.
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond told The Mirror: "She wants the world to remember that her children are part of the Royal Family. I think she's proud of her connection [to the firm] - hence her continued use of her title of duchess and their decision to use the children's titles."
A 'Strange' Move for Privacy Seekers
Ms Bond also noted that sharing private photos is a "strange" move given the family's well-publicised desire for privacy. The relentless self-promotion lends an air of inauthenticity, suggesting Meghan views the royal connection as a way to boost her profile rather than a genuine appreciation of heritage.
While the recent trip passed without major incident, the Sussexes cannot expect a warm welcome back after years of revealing moves. Archie and Lilibet remain prince and princess and will always be received warmly by their grandfather, but too much has happened for the duke and duchess to enjoy a similar reception. As one commentator put it, they've made their bed, and now they must lie in it.
