King Charles III was taken by surprise by Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan’s choice to return to the UK, especially given that their son is already settled there. He only learned of their plans four days ago.
The British king had a meeting with his son and daughter-in-law last month, but the Duke and Duchess of Sussex didn’t mention their intentions to the royal family. According to reports, Charles found out on Sunday, just a few days before confirming that the couple would be moving back for an “extended period,” which marks the end of their six-year self-imposed exile in the United States.
Sources indicate that Charles, who is 77, is looking forward to spending more private time with his family now that he knows about the move.
Insiders claim, “We know Charles is the reason they’re leaving.”
Harry, 41, and Markle, 45, are set to vacate their $14 million home in Southern California for several weeks, if not longer, taking their children Archie, 7, and Lilibet, 5, along with them.
The family has already secured a non-royal residence and enrolled their children in British schools for the upcoming autumn term.
It’s still uncertain where Harry and Meghan will settle in the UK, and whether they’ll choose to buy or rent a property.
The Sussexes are unlikely to return to royal duties and will continue to focus on their own business ventures.
This relocation occurs six years after Harry and Meghan’s dramatic decision to step back from royal responsibilities and leave the UK for California in March 2020.
During their time in the U.S., their attempts at becoming successful authors, Netflix personalities, or artisanal jam makers didn’t quite pan out. They were, however, vocal critics of the royal family, which could lead to further scrutiny following their return.
