Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s potential return to the UK could create fresh tensions within the royal family, according to a royal expert.
Christopher Andersen believes the move would be particularly difficult for Prince William and Kate Middleton, who are already balancing growing responsibilities within the monarchy.
“All I can think of is: here we go again,” the Brothers and Wives author told Us Weekly. “I can only imagine that William and Kate are tearing their hair out.”
Andersen said the Prince and Princess of Wales already have “so much on their plate” as they work to strengthen the monarchy and prepare it for the future. Having Harry and Meghan living nearby, he suggested, could create an additional distraction.
The expert argued that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex would inevitably attract intense media coverage if they returned to Britain.
“They will generate countless tabloid stories and take the focus away from other members of the royal family, who is a major no-no,” he said.
According to Andersen, King Charles and Queen Camilla would not welcome being overshadowed, while William may feel the same way.
Security could also become a major issue. Harry has previously fought to restore taxpayer-funded police protection for himself and his family during visits to the UK.
Andersen said that unless King Charles agreed to personally cover the cost of royal protection, Harry would likely have to pay for private security.
“There is no indication that he has,” the royal commentator said, adding that private bodyguards could eventually cost the Sussexes millions.
Harry and Meghan stepped down as senior working royals in 2020 before moving to California. Reports of a possible return have therefore raised questions about whether they could resume any form of royal duty.
Andersen, however, noted that Harry has reportedly ruled out taking on an official royal role.
“This news of a sudden move back to the UK also begs the question: Why do it in the first place if you are not going to at least try to resume royal duties?” he said.
The expert suggested the move could be an attempt to pressure the royal family into reconsidering Harry’s position.
With the Sussexes living in Britain and receiving regular coverage in the British press, Andersen believed the King could eventually feel compelled to find a way of bringing his younger son back into the royal fold.
That would not necessarily win William’s support, however.
“There is still bitterness there,” Andersen said. “All is not forgiven.”
