Prince Harry, Meghan Markle UK return: The British reaction to the news and the question everyone’s asking
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have announced plans to return to the UK, sparking widespread public skepticism and media scrutiny. The move follows years of strained relations between the couple and the British public following their departure from royal duties in 2020.
Why it matters
The couple's return highlights ongoing cultural tensions regarding the role of the monarchy and the public's perception of the Sussexes' past criticisms of the institution.
- 2.11am . First published August 20, 2026 - 10.26pm
Share article Analysis : The Sussexes shocked many around the world with the news on Wednesday (Thursday AEST) that they’ll be moving back to the UK in a matter of weeks .
But for the Brits, there is one key question they’re all asking of Prince Harry and Meghan’s big announcement : what’s changed?
Harry and Meghan’s impending return to the UK has Brits wondering one thing. Getty
While news of their move – six years after leaving their life in England in the most mic-drop sort of way – was splashed across Thursday’s newspaper front pages in a mostly positive tone, there was a sense of wider scepticism of their return.
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