Prince Harry has consistently stated that the U.K. media contributed significantly to the challenges that led him and Meghan to resign from royal duties. As they return to the U.K., these tensions are resurfacing. Recently, a tabloid front-page story about Harry’s relationship with King Charles III has come under scrutiny.
In August, the couple secured a correction from the Daily Mail for an inaccurate story about them visiting celebrity friends. Now, a story on the front page of the Daily Mirror, considered inaccurate by Newsweek, suggests that Harry and King Charles III have not spoken. The headline claimed, “Harry and King have not spoken,” with a subheading stating, “Prince yet to call Charles two weeks after he moved back to the U.K.” However, Newsweek confirmed that Harry and Charles did communicate during the week following the Sussexes’ relocation to Britain.
Why It Matters
The early stages of Harry and Meghan’s return to the U.K. will test their integration back into royal life. Key factors include managing tensions that originally prompted their departure, such as conflicts with family and palace staff, as well as media criticism. They have previously alleged that the media criticism was driven by an agenda. The latest media coverage coincides with a separate conflict between the Sussexes and Buckingham Palace over a letter issued by the head of the Royal Household.
The Daily Mirror reported that Harry had not scheduled a call with Charles since returning to Britain. It also noted that the King has been in Scotland during this period. The article implies ongoing tension with Harry’s family, who purportedly are unaware of his reasons for returning from California. Despite these reports, Newsweek verified that Harry did speak with his father upon his initial arrival in Britain, and no formal complaint has been lodged regarding the story.
Palace Relations
The recent issue with the Mirror succeeded another incident involving the palace. Tensions arose due to a letter to British government officials and representatives of the monarchy, addressing the Sussexes’ status as non-working royals. The letter confirmed that their HRH titles are in abeyance, advising dignitaries not to refer to them using those styles.
The communication was issued on a Monday, and by Tuesday, Newsweek reported that the couple was “surprised” by having been informed only an hour before public release. Harry and Meghan’s aides requested a revision in the letter to describe them as “public figures” rather than “private citizens.” This change was not implemented. The letter clarified that their royal styles “remain in abeyance,” that their charitable endeavors are private matters, and that their status is similar to private citizens with commercial and charitable interests.