Author Claims Prince Archie’s 'Growing Interest' in Grandpa Charles Has Meghan Markle Worried
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry left the royal family behind in 2020 with their one-year-old son, Prince Archie, to settle in California. Since then, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have moved into a plush Montecito mansion, welcoming Princess Lilibet in 2021. While Markle has made it clear she will never return to the UK, she allegedly fears that Archie might want to reconnect with his royal roots in the future. Royal author Tom Quinn has claimed that Markle ‘fears’ Britain could become a ‘longed-for fantasy’ for her son, thanks to grandpa, King Charles’, extravagant gifts for him.
In an exclusive interview with The Mirror, Quinn alleged that Markle has discouraged Charles from sending lavish gifts to her son. He said, "Archie loves the idea that his grandad lives in a castle, and Meghan was worried that a magnificent shepherd’s hut or similar extravagant present will only increase Archie’s growing interest in his royal connections." He added, "She had been pushing Harry to insist that his father get Archie a simple present." The author further revealed that Archie is allegedly 'desperate' to visit the UK with his father, but Harry and Markle have actively discouraged his requests.
The King last met his grandson in 2022, when the Sussexes flew down for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. Quinn revealed, "Charles is desperate to show he cares and he wants to be an indulgent grandparent, partly because he has mellowed over the years and wants to make up for what he sees as his neglect of his sons." The author further claimed that Archie greatly misses his grandfather. He said, "Many of Archie’s books are about kings, princesses, and castles, and he knows enough to know that his grandfather lives in a castle."
In a separate conversation, Quinn also dished that Charles is 'worried' his luxurious gifts for his grandson may be misinterpreted by Harry and Markle. The author further claimed that Charles' aides have claimed the King is 'uncomfortable' with the idea of video calling his grandson, but does so just to have a chance to talk to him. As reported by OK! magazine, he said, "If he makes an ordinary telephone call to Harry, it means he can have a quick word with Archie without the need to talk to Meghan, a prospect that fills him with dread."
The monarch's 'desperation' to connect with his US-based grandchildren was also echoed by a royal insider. The source told Page Six, "I can see Charles desperately wanting to see the children... Balmoral is truly the perfect, restful place for a reunion. If he does issue an invite, then Harry and Meghan should surely agree to the visit."
Harry and Markle’s relationship with the King and the rest of the royals remains strained after a series of damaging accusations made by them. Despite Harry's public plea for reconciliation, Charles is reportedly not interested in mending ties with his son, as he feels the Duke severely betrayed his trust.