Prince Harry is reportedly feeling increasingly overshadowed by his wife, Meghan Markle, and is contemplating a return to the United Kingdom, according to multiple sources close to the Duke of Sussex. The emotional strain comes as Harry grapples with his public role and personal identity since relocating to the US.
In recent weeks, Harry has confided to friends about his sense of displacement and dissatisfaction with his life in California. Sources say that Harry, who once held a prominent position within the British Royal Family, now feels like a "spare part" in his own life. This sentiment was reportedly exacerbated during the couple's recent trip to Colombia, where Meghan's prominent public appearances highlighted Harry's perceived secondary role.
A source close to Harry told The Sun, "The Colombia trip really showcased how Meghan is comfortable stepping into the spotlight, while Harry appeared sulky and unhappy in the background." The source added that Harry's feelings of isolation have prompted him to reach out to former British associates for advice on potentially rekindling his ties with the Royal Family.
Harry's sense of disconnection has been notable since the couple's move to Montecito, California, where they reside in a $14 million mansion with their children, Archie and Lilibet. Despite their high-profile lifestyle, the Duke reportedly feels a growing emotional distance from his previous royal life.
The strain in Harry's relationship with the Royal Family was further highlighted during the recent funeral of Lord Robert Fellowes, the brother-in-law of Princess Diana. Both Harry and his brother, Prince William, attended the service at St. Mary's Church in Snettisham, Norfolk, but reportedly maintained a low profile and did not interact with each other. Witnesses noted, "William and Harry were both there but we never saw them speak to each other."
The brothers' relationship has been strained since Harry and Meghan's departure from royal duties in 2020 and the subsequent publication of Harry's memoir, Spare. In the book, Harry accused William of physically confronting him during an argument and criticized the Royal Family's handling of his mental health struggles. The tensions were evident during King Charles III's coronation in May, where Harry and William were seen seated separately, with Harry making a swift exit.
Despite the ongoing tensions, there have been indications of potential reconciliation. Sources suggest that King Charles, who has been receiving advice from spiritual and religious leaders, is contemplating a truce with Harry. The guidance has reportedly made Charles more open to reconnecting with his son, as he navigates his role as king while dealing with personal losses.
Harry's inner circle has also observed that he enjoys his visits to the UK, which provide him with a sense of belonging and connection to his past. These solo trips appear to offer him some solace and a temporary escape from his perceived sidelined role in the US.
As Harry continues to explore his options, the broader context of his life in the US and his strained relationship with the Royal Family remain central to his personal and public struggles. His potential return to the UK would require significant effort to mend the rifts created by his departure from royal duties.
