Duke of Sussex faces fresh disappointment ahead of Balmoral summer gathering
Prince Harry has reportedly been dealt a painful blow by King Charles, as hopes for a reconciliation appear to falter ahead of the royal family's annual summer retreat to Balmoral.
Despite recent reports suggesting that the Duke of Sussex has extended an olive branch to his father following a legal defeat in the UK, the King is believed to have made the difficult decision not to invite Harry to the upcoming family gathering at the Scottish estate — a tradition cherished since Queen Elizabeth II's reign.
According to Express, a public poll revealed overwhelming support for the monarch's decision to exclude Harry, with 866 out of 920 participants voting against sending an invitation to the Duke. Only 48 respondents believed the King should welcome his son back for the occasion.
The news is expected to be especially difficult for Harry, who, along with Meghan Markle and their two children, has remained estranged from the royal family since stepping down from official duties in 2020 and relocating to California.
Calls for reconciliation resurfaced recently after Harry expressed a willingness to mend ties, particularly in light of King Charles’s ongoing cancer treatment. However, this reported snub suggests that healing the rift may take more time — and effort — than a single gesture.
While the Palace has yet to make any formal announcement, the sentiment around Balmoral underscores the lingering divide between the Sussexes and the rest of the Firm — even as royal tradition marches on without them.
