Children’s connection to royal family weakens amid growing rift and Harry’s refusal to return to the UK
Prince Harry has reportedly received painful news about the growing distance between his children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, and their royal heritage, as tensions with the monarchy show no sign of easing.
Although King Charles officially granted royal titles to his California-based grandchildren following his accession, insiders say the emotional gap continues to widen. While the King maintains a close relationship with his other grandchildren—George, Charlotte, and Louis—his bond with Archie and Lilibet has never had a chance to flourish.
The situation has been made worse in recent weeks by renewed tension between Harry and the royal household, particularly after the Duke lost his legal battle over UK security and issued further public criticism. In a BBC interview, Harry admitted, “I can’t see a world in which I would bring my wife and children back to the UK at this point.”
Royal experts warn that Harry’s estrangement from his family, including his cancer-stricken father, may ultimately impact his children most. “The Sussexes’ actions and ongoing attacks on the royals have created a deep divide,” said commentator Richard Fitzwilliams. “This rift is likely to make meaningful relationships between Archie, Lilibet, and their royal relatives extremely difficult.”
Despite past hopes that Meghan’s public profile would ease her transition into royal life, differences in temperament and direction reportedly caused early friction—particularly between her and Catherine.
While Archie left the UK as a toddler and Lilibet met the late Queen just once, there’s been little to no known contact with other royal family members. According to expert Hilary Fordwich, it hasn’t been the royal family keeping the children away. “They’ve taken the high road despite constant criticism,” she explained.
As Harry now appeals for reconciliation, many see it as a stark reminder: the longer the rift remains, the more his children may lose their connection to their royal roots.
