Meghan Markle and Prince Harry continue to captivate public attention, even after their relocation to the United States. The strained relationship between the Sussexes and the Royal Family shows little sign of improvement, and with Prince Harry’s upcoming memoir, it’s possible that tensions could rise even further. Despite their ongoing media presence, their return to the UK for Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in September did little to mend the rift.
Public Appearances Mask Ongoing Discontent
During the funeral events, Meghan and Harry appeared alongside Prince William and Kate Middleton, giving the appearance of unity. However, according to royal correspondent Russel Myers, this united front may have been more performative than genuine. Despite walking side-by-side and interacting with the public, there was a noticeable lack of personal interaction between the two couples. William and Harry, who once shared a close bond, reportedly didn’t make eye contact, and there were no exchanges between Kate and Meghan.
According to insiders, the public gestures of solidarity were carefully orchestrated. The joint appearance at Windsor Castle, for example, led many to believe that reconciliation was possible. However, Myers noted that any appearance of unity was only superficial and that unresolved distrust remains within the family.
Distrust Among the Royals Persists
The public appearances of Harry, Meghan, William, and Kate during the Queen’s funeral did little to resolve the deeper issues within the family. Royal insiders have emphasized that the distrust, especially between Prince Harry and Prince William, remains unresolved. While the Royal Family was still in mourning, speculation grew over whether Harry’s upcoming memoir could further damage relations.
“There is still a serious amount of distrust in the air, and there hasn’t been any cause for that to change,” Myers explained. This lingering tension underscores the fact that any gestures of reconciliation during their time in the UK were temporary and unlikely to lead to lasting change. Meghan and Kate’s lack of interaction throughout the period only added to the impression that tensions remain high.
Failed Reconciliation Attempt with King Charles and Camilla
Earlier in 2022, Harry and Meghan made a brief visit to the UK with the intent of mending their relationship with King Charles and Queen Camilla. Unfortunately, the attempt was unsuccessful. According to royal correspondent Katie Nicholl, the meeting was awkward from the start, with the Sussexes arriving late. The couple only had 15 minutes to speak with Charles before he had to attend a Royal Maundy Service, a significant royal event.
Though the father and son greeted each other warmly, the meeting did not go as planned. Tension between them was palpable, highlighting the strained dynamic. In contrast, their tea with Queen Elizabeth was reportedly more cordial, but this was one of the last meetings Harry and Meghan would have with her before her passing.
Future of the Sussexes’ Relationship with the Royal Family
The tensions between the Sussexes and the Royal Family remain unresolved, and the future of their relationship is uncertain. Prince Harry’s memoir, expected to reveal further details about his royal experience, may have lasting consequences for his relationships with King Charles, Prince William, and the rest of the family. As the family continues to mourn the loss of Queen Elizabeth, it seems any hopes for reconciliation are distant at best, with unresolved distrust casting a long shadow over future interactions.
