Harry and Meghan Might Stay in Buckingham Palace for One Calculated Reason — and It's Not Sentimental
Although Balmoral and Althorp House have featured prominently in recent reports, one royal expert believes another iconic location would carry far greater significance.
As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle prepare for a return to the UK this month, attention has once again turned to where the Duke and Duchess of Sussex might stay. Reports have suggested that King Charles has offered the couple a royal residence, with Balmoral Castle and Princess Diana's childhood home, Althorp House, making the rounds in the media. However, one royal expert believes there is another, far more symbolic option that could help Harry and Markle reinforce their royal image, particularly among American audiences ― Buckingham Palace.
Samara Gill, presenter on TalkTV, discussed the potential significance of the Sussexes' homebound trip, suggesting they strategically aim to showcase a warm reception from the royal family to Americans. "I think it is very interesting that they might stay at Buckingham Palace. I think that's all about optics for them. I think they want to be seen, at least from the American side, that they're going there, they're being welcomed back into the Royal Family." Gill highlighted this while speaking on The Sun's Royal Exclusive show.
The TV presenter further indicated that the late Queen opposed the idea of the Sussexes oscillating between royal duties in Britain and their life in Montecito, clarifying that it was one of her final wishes that they should not have such a transient engagement. "They're able to then cachet off that brand and bring it back to the States, and continue what they're doing with this one foot in, one foot out royal life that, may I remind you, the Queen did not want to happen," Gill noted. Queen Elizabeth had rejected the 'half-in, half-out' model proposed by the couple during the 2020 Sandringham Summit, deeming it an untenable conflict of interest.
However, royal commentator Sarah Hewson noted that Harry's visit is expected due to his enduring dedication to the Invictus Games. She believes that the Sussexes are genuinely seeking an emotional reconciliation, saying it "makes sense... in terms of being able to further that sort of reconciliation which has already begun behind closed doors." Hewson continued, "We do usually see Meghan on board for these events to support Harry in what is, you know, his greatest project. And so, I suppose we shouldn't be surprised that she's taking part in this event." Meanwhile, Harry is working on ensuring protection for his wife and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, throughout their five-day visit.
Prince Harry is awaiting a security review by the Risk Management Board, as part of the process used by the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec), before his family is allowed to join him. Although Archie and Lilibet are not expected to participate in public engagements, Markle is likely to join him for visits to the Royal Hospital Chelsea and an Invictus event in Birmingham.
