Prince Harry's Royal Lifeline in Princess Eugenie Crumbles Ahead of His UK Return: Report
Prince Harry may have a smaller social circle than he once did after years away from Britain.
Prince Harry and Princess Eugenie were once considered among the closest cousins in the Royal Family, and their bond continued even after he and Meghan Markle left Britain. But as the Sussexes prepare for a new chapter in the UK, Eugenie is said to be no longer close to the pair. The once-close cousins have reportedly drifted apart, leaving Harry all alone as he returns home.
According to an insider, both Eugenie and Princess Beatrice grew apart from Harry since his move to California. "Harry and Meghan are not so close to Beatrice and Eugenie anymore, and Harry did not see Eugenie over the summer in Portugal," shared the source.
This comes amid reports of the Sussexes banking on the York sisters for support. Refuting the claims, the source shared that Harry may have a smaller social circle than he once did after years away from Britain. Talking to HELLO!, they added, “Harry has very few friends left from before. They're going to have to make some serious social inroads and gatherings to get back in the fold."
The Portugal detail is particularly interesting because Harry and Markle travelled there this summer, where Eugenie and her husband, Jack Brooksbank, have a base. Despite being nearby, the cousins allegedly did not meet. Eugenie was once seen as one of Harry’s strongest allies and was the only royal family member to visit the Sussexes in California and even appeared in their Netflix documentary.
Sharing insights into the growing distance, royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams told the Daily Mail, “Harry and Meghan won't want to be too close to the sisters, as they are far too controversial because of their disgraced parents. The Sussexes will keep their distance publicly, and they do excite worldwide interest."
Despite the latest claims, Harry still has a few old friends who could help him settle back into British life. These reportedly include the Duke of Westminster, Charles and Thomas van Straubenzee, as well as his trusted adviser and longtime friend, Mark Dyer.