King Charles Issues 'Clear' Ultimatum to Prince Harry Amid Reconciliation Rumors: Insider
After Prince Harry slipped into Clarence House earlier this month to see King Charles for the first time in 19 months, speculation quickly swirled about the 'Spare' making a grand comeback into royal life. Could this be the long-awaited thaw between father and son, and would he be welcomed back into the Firm with open arms? While Charles seemed forgiving, behind closed doors, he allegedly issued Harry an ultimatum.
According to The Times, Charles has no intention of revisiting the key decision of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth. A source told the outlet, “The King has been absolutely clear in upholding his late mother’s decision that there can be no ‘half-in, half-out’ public role for members of the family.”
That principle dates back to 2020, when Harry and Meghan Markle formally stepped back from royal life. At the time, the late Queen made it clear that the couple couldn't be part-time royals. Stepping away meant Harry had to relinquish his honorary military titles. He and Markle also lost their royal patronages — a move the Sussexes reportedly resisted during their exit from official duties. This established the framework Charles now maintains.
Royal commentator Charlotte Griffith, writing for the Daily Mail, also echoed that while the meeting was a step forward in the positive direction, Charles remains cautious. She noted that discussions are reportedly underway within the royal household, but they appear aimed at facilitating a united public image rather than signaling Harry’s return to royal duties. “In the strongest indication yet that the Duke of Sussex is making positive steps towards a reconciliation with senior royals, it is understood that courtiers in both households are tentatively discussing how to get father and son together more frequently over the next year, with a view to them finally appearing jointly at a public event.”
For Harry, the prospect of finding a middle ground with his family has always been complicated. His insistence on independence and his determination to chart a life far away from the Palace might have made the 'half-in, half-out' model appealing to him in 2020, but things have since changed.
During his latest trip to the UK, Harry carried out several engagements tied to his charities and patronages; however, it is understood that this did not signal a permanent return. Speculation about his future ties to the UK recently intensified after reports claimed that he had registered Prince Archie at Eton College, the prestigious school attended by both him and Prince William. However, the Duke's representative clearly denied it, stating, “Prince Harry has not put his son’s name down for Eton, nor does he have any plans to do so.”
It is understood that Harry is not seeking a part-time arrangement, is happy with his life in California with his wife and children, and is somewhat on the same page as Charles about a return. The spokesperson for Harry stressed, “The Duke has made it clear that the focus has to be on his dad. Beyond that, and on any other issues as they relate to his family, we won’t be commenting.”