Prince Harry has yet to publicly explain exactly why he has returned to the United Kingdom, but insiders claim he is hell-bent on repairing his strained relationship with his brother – with a plan they believe could also help to rehabilitate his public image.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been living in the UK for roughly a week and are believed to be staying in the Cotswolds.
Friends of Harry, 41, have claimed the “extended stay” could mark an important chapter in the Duke’s relationship with his family, saying he is adamant his return could eventually lead to a reconciliation with Prince William, 44, as reported by the Daily Express.
However, previous reports suggesting William is trying to keep a safe distance from his younger brother due to the media circus that usually surrounds him could make Harry’s end goal much harder to achieve.
Friends have said the Duke’s ultimate goal would be to be to eventually appear in public with his brother, which would mark a dramatic turn of events following years of estrangement.
“It’s too soon now, but there is a hope and a belief that one day they will appear in public together and that will completely change the narrative,” the friend said.
Such a public reunion could also help Harry’s fractured reputation in the UK, which his friends believe is already beginning to change following his return home.
Sources close to William, however, have been quick to pour cold water on those ambitions, indicating that the heir to the throne has no plans to reconcile with his brother.
Royal expert Kinsey Schofield echoed those claims during an interview with News24 host Rita Panahi on Monday, saying William has “no desire” to have Harry back in his life if he remains married to Meghan Markle.
“If they separate, which we’re all watching very closely right now because this move is bizarre, then I think you might see Prince William allow Harry back into his life,” Schofield said.
“If Meghan Markle is still there, absolutely not.”
The sources said Harry was also focused on rebuilding his relationship with his father King Charles III, with reports claiming the idea of monthly tea catchups has been floated between father and son.
The 77-year-old monarch is reportedly enthusiastic with the idea of spending more time with his young grandchildren, Prince Archie, seven and Princess Lilibet, five, with the frequent get-togethers potentially allowing him to “properly get to know” the young royals.
Sources have claimed the meetups will be deliberately informal, allowing Harry to avoid the palace machinery that usually surrounds his father.