Meghan Markle’s UK Return Could Be Very Different — But Friends Are 'Worried for Her' for One Reason
Meghan Markle's social circle revealed their biggest worry about her returning to the UK as the Sussexes arrived at Birmingham this week.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry landed in Birmingham this week, with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, as well as their dogs, Pula and Mia. While the Sussexes’ $120K private jet would have provided safe and luxurious travel, the Duchess might be in for a bumpy ride as she returns to the UK for an extended stay, six years after leaving the monarchy. Markle had previously been vocal about media harassment as a senior working royal, and her social circle is understandably “worried” for her this time around.
Ever since the news of Markle and Harry returning to the UK broke last week, the frenzy around the decision has only grown more intense by the day. The family currently has the attention of the world, and that can be a cause for concern for their friends. A source close to the Duchess said via InStyle, “My biggest concern is the level of media attention she’ll face in the U.K. I’m worried for her.”
However, a friend pointed out that there could be a change this time around, and things could turn out differently. “She has been vocal about how she felt before, but that doesn’t mean things are going to be exactly the same again,” they said. “It doesn’t mean it can’t be different and can’t change.” Another friend mentioned that when Markle returns to the UK, she would be “stronger” to “protect” herself and her family.
Markle had accompanied Harry when he visited the UK last month for the 2027 Invictus Games events. Their children were also with them. However, the family of four managed to keep their trip extremely private. While the Duke of Sussex was spotted during several public engagements, his wife and kids were never seen in public. The Sussexes also reunited with King Charles in a private meeting at Highgrove, and visited Princess Diana’s grave in Althorp. While speculation was rife that both these events could happen, it was only after they were done that the world got confirmation of them.
This time around, there has been enough chatter about where the family of four would live or which school Archie and Lilibet are enrolled in, but no concrete details about either question have been revealed. Cotswolds had previously emerged as a leading contender for the family’s new home. It is unclear whether the couple will ever enter the royal fold, but so far, they will be coming back as private individuals, according to reports. Markle is also said to be in talks for The Gentlemen season 3.
It is expected that Harry and Markle will undertake charity and commercial engagements in the UK. And in the case that they do, they will likely have to co-ordinate with the Palace to avoid diary clashes.
