(Photo : JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Since stepping back from royal duties over four years ago, speculation has continued about whether Prince Harry might ever return to represent the crown. Despite distancing himself from the monarchy, the Duke of Sussex remains dedicated to a “life of service,” maintaining his commitment to charitable causes, including Sentebale and the Invictus Games.
When both King Charles and Princess Kate were undergoing cancer treatment and temporarily unable to fulfill their public duties, discussions about Harry stepping in on a part-time basis resurfaced. Though royal sources quickly dismissed the idea, Harry flew back to the UK to visit his father following the announcement of Charles’ condition.
Reflecting on the visit, Harry expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to see his father, though the two have not reunited since. In early 2023, during the promotion of his memoir Spare, the question of a potential return to royal duties was posed directly to Harry. His response was unequivocal: “No. I don’t think it is ever going to be possible.”
He explained further, saying, “Even if there is an agreement or an arrangement between me and my family, there is that third party that is going to do everything they can to make sure that isn’t possible. Not stopping us going back, but making it unsurvivable.” The “third party” he referred to is the British press, with whom Harry has ongoing legal battles.
Despite his reluctance to return to royal life, Harry remains hopeful about mending relationships with his family, particularly his brother, Prince William. Speaking to Good Morning America, he expressed his desire for reconciliation, stating, “I hope that we will be joined at the hip again.” He went on to say, “Because, you know, if there’s something that will terrify the British press more than anything, it’s William and I being aligned.”
While the possibility of resuming royal duties seems slim, Harry’s focus remains on rebuilding familial bonds and continuing his charitable endeavors. His reflections suggest that while official roles may be out of the question, the prospect of reconciliation with his brother remains close to his heart.
