Duke of Sussex unlikely to mend royal ties without Duchess of Sussex's approval
Prince Harry's path back to royal life appears to rest in the hands of Meghan Markle, with royal experts suggesting that any reunion with the monarchy is unlikely without her support.
Royal commentator Charles Rae believes the Duchess of Sussex is the central figure in determining whether peace can be restored between Harry and his family, particularly his father and brother.
“There are a couple of huge flies in the ointment here, and one is Meghan,” Rae explained. He added that the Prince of Wales—heir to the throne—has been deeply affected by the fallout with Harry, and in his view, holds Meghan responsible for the divide.
“Of everyone involved, William seems to be the most hurt, and he places the blame squarely on Meghan,” Rae said, expressing doubt that the situation will ever be fully repaired. “I still believe Meghan will never return to this country.”
Longtime royal photographer Arthur Edwards shared a similar view, calling any future visit from Meghan to the UK a “big moment” that would genuinely surprise him. “She’s managed to avoid coming back,” he noted on The Sun’s royal podcast.
Edwards also acknowledged Harry's loyalty to Meghan: "She's his wife and the mother of his children. He's chosen a life with her in America—that's his decision."
Security concerns remain another major factor. The Duke of Sussex has stated that he cannot safely bring Meghan, Archie, and Lilibet back to Britain without official police protection, a point that has been at the center of legal disputes in recent years.
However, royal watchers suggest Harry views his relationship with the royal family through Meghan's perspective—and until she gives the green light, a meaningful reconciliation remains unlikely.
