The Duke of Sussex struggles with homesickness as he reconnects with old friends
Prince Harry became visibly emotional during a quiet gathering with longtime friends while visiting Britain for a four-day trip centred on his charitable work. According to one source, he seemed close to tears as he reflected on being back in the country where he was born, raised, and christened.
Those close to him say returning to England has stirred powerful emotions. “It’s as though he doesn’t want to leave again,” the insider said, adding that Harry feels a deep attachment to the land that holds both some of his happiest and most painful memories.
His visit has also reignited hopes of possible reconciliation with his father, King Charles, just weeks after their aides were seen meeting in London. Though Harry remains estranged from his father and brother, he has previously expressed a wish to repair those relationships.
Friends say the 40-year-old Duke has been reaching out to his old UK circle more often. “Spike, as we used to call him, is clearly homesick,” one friend told the Standard. “Whenever people from here go to America, they try to see him. It’s rarely with Meghan Markle. We think he’s beginning to pine for home.”
A royal courtier added that the rift has weighed heavily on both sides. “Harry may have forgotten this, but his father always absolutely adored him. He used to call him ‘my darling boy’ and was deeply affectionate,” they said. “People often credit his charm to his mother, but much of his warmth and attentiveness comes directly from the King.”
