In a swift response to the news of his father King Charles’ recent cancer diagnosis, Prince Harry has made a solo journey back to the United Kingdom. The Duke of Sussex, 39, arrived at London Heathrow Airport on Tuesday and proceeded to Clarence House, the longtime residence of King Charles, 75. However, amidst the concerns for the monarch’s health, speculations arise about the potential reunion between Prince Harry and his brother, Prince William.
The last known meeting between father and son was at King Charles’ coronation ceremony in May, with Prince Harry reportedly leaving immediately after the event. His solo trip from California, where he resides with his wife Meghan Markle and their two children, 4-year-old Prince Archie and 2-year-old Princess Lilibet, marks a significant return to the royal fold.
A source close to the royal household, exclusively shared with PEOPLE in this week’s cover story, expressed optimism, saying, “Hopefully [Harry] will bring the grandchildren at some point too, as that would be lovely for all of them.”
While Prince Harry did meet with King Charles on Tuesday, just a day after the cancer news was made public, there are currently “no plans” for a meeting between him and Prince William. The 41-year-old Prince William has temporarily stepped back from royal engagements to focus on caring for his three children while his wife, Kate Middleton, recovers from abdominal surgery.
The Prince of Wales, on the other hand, is set to resume public duties on Wednesday with an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle and the annual fundraising gala for the London Air Ambulance. Amidst these challenges, Prince William may undertake some of his father’s duties, but there are no immediate plans to appoint Counsellors of State, individuals who would act on King Charles’ behalf during his absence or illness.
This return to the UK for Prince Harry unfolds against the backdrop of an ongoing family rift, as revealed in his memoir “Spare,” released in January 2022. The book exposed the deep-seated differences between the brothers, and despite the passage of time, their relationship appears to have solidified into a state of indifference.
In light of King Charles’ cancer diagnosis, the monarch personally shared the news with his sons and siblings before making it public. Despite the health setback, King Charles was seen attending church with Queen Camilla on Sunday, marking his first public appearance since leaving the hospital on Jan. 29. As the royal family grapples with health concerns, Prince Harry’s return adds another layer to the intricate dynamics within the monarchy.
