Charles Could Offer Harry a ‘Realistic’ Olive Branch — but Not Everyone's ‘Willing to Welcome’ Him
It's that time of the year when friends and family come together in festive spirit, and the royal family is no exception. As they prepare to honor holiday traditions passed down through generations, a quiet longing allegedly lingers in King Charles’s heart. With Christmas cheer in the air, Charles and Queen Camilla are gearing up to host the family at Sandringham, Norfolk. But Prince Harry’s continued absence still weighs on the monarch, who may be ready to extend his most 'realistic' olive branch yet. So, what is the King planning?
Upholding the legacy of the late Queen and Prince Philip, Charles is preparing for the customary Christmas Day events. Royal correspondent Richard Palmer noted to The Express UK that “the King’s speech, the big gathering at Sandringham, and the family’s walk to church on Christmas Day” embody tradition and convey the values the royals wish to project. The festivities begin with high tea on Christmas Eve, followed by gift exchanges and a formal dinner. This year's Christmas may, however, mark the beginning of a new chapter of royal reconciliation.
Christmas is very special for the King, who, just like his mother, celebrates the day by switching off from work and spending time with family. “It’s a major thing because there are only two occasions in the year when the whole family gets together for any length of time," explained royal author Katie Nicholl. This year, the King is reportedly likely to offer an olive branch to Harry, after their successful September reunion. “A Skype call is probably a more realistic option," said Palmer.
The royal correspondent opined that it would be pushing it if Harry and Meghan Markle were to attend Christmas in the UK with the royals. “It’s too soon for Harry and Meghan to attend an event like the royal Christmas when there’s so much still to sort out," he stressed. Nicholl seconded Palmer's views and added, "The initial step of reconciliation between Harry and his father will hopefully lead to something meaningful in the future, but I’m not sure everyone’s as willing to welcome Harry in from the cold just yet.”
The festive season may open up new doors for the Sussexes, especially given the King's health. “The difficulties of the past 18 months, marked by the ill-health of both King Charles and the Princess of Wales, will make it an even more poignant and special time," explained Nicholl.
She also brought to attention how the Princess of Wales has emphasized 'the importance of love and family' during her cancer recovery, and so she argues the royals likely may finally come to let go of Harry's mistakes. Prince William and Princess Kate, and their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, will attend the Sandringham Christmas celebration this year, along with the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, with Lady Louise Windsor and James, Earl of Wessex, and other royal family members.