5 Ways Harry and Meghan’s UK Return Could Change the Royal Family

With new reports claiming Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are moving back to the UK, it is impossible to ignore how it could affect the Royal Family. Although they are no longer working royals, Harry is still the son of the reigning monarch, and Markle will always be associated with the institution as well. So, their presence on British soil could potentially bring some massive changes to the Firm.

The couple’s return could bring the old “half-in, half-out” arrangement back into the conversation. When Harry and Markle stepped down in 2020, Queen Elizabeth ultimately rejected the idea of them having one foot in the royal fold while building an independent commercial life. But as they are set to begin their life in the UK again, a version of that hybrid role might come into effect. Royal expert Jennie Bond also suggested, “...Not quite half in and half out – but a way of doing traditional royal engagements even though he’s not part of ‘the firm’. It’s something I think he and Meghan should have been allowed to do in the first place.”

Harry and Markle’s return could also put them smack in the middle of the British media storm they once tried to escape. Their relationship with the press was one of the major issues surrounding their decision to step back from royal life, and Harry even took Associated Newspapers to court over privacy concerns. This time, the Sussexes would be living in the UK without being working royals, which is likely to invite more scrutiny. William and Kate, meanwhile, operate under strict media agreements for school drop-offs for their children and private events; a protection that won't be afforded to Harry and Markle. This sets up a chaotic media ecosystem for the Firm where one branch of the family is heavily guarded by royal rota rules, and another would be subject to tabloid frenzy.

For years, living on opposite sides of the Atlantic gave both Harry and William plenty of physical distance, making it easier for the family to avoid uncomfortable encounters. That changes if the Sussexes settle in Britain. The brothers could suddenly find themselves at the same family occasions, public events, or even in the same part of London, whether they plan for it or not. Harry’s July visit already put him just miles apart from William as they stepped out for different engagements. Now, with the brothers residing in the same country, the Firm would have to constantly manage accidental run-ins.

Security could become another headache if Harry and Markle are planning to spend more time in Britain. Harry has spent years fighting the Home Office over his security arrangements after losing his taxpayer-funded police protection. His current protection is decided on a case-by-case basis, and RAVEC determined not to provide security for his family during his recent UK visit. The complicated issue could become even harder if they finally move to the country. The government and the Firm may now face renewed questions over how much protection they need, who should provide it, and who should foot the bill.

The move may also bring in a positive change. It could allow the family to finally put the years of estrangement behind. Archie and Lilibet would have a chance at having a much closer relationship with the Royal Family. The children are set to attend school in Britain from September, after growing up in California.