The thunderbolt came without warning. On 19 August, People – the US magazine favoured by Prince Harry and his wife, the Duchess of Sussex – delivered the news that the duo was “moving back to Britain” for an “extended period” with their two kids, Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five.
But the question on everyone’s lips is, “Why now?” We unravel the real reasons…
Divorce ultimatum
With whispers that the couple has been spending time apart, speculation is mounting the shock move might be a last-ditch attempt to save their marriage.
Insiders believe Harry, 41, was so unhappy in the US that he gave Meghan, 45, an ultimatum – we go back to the UK or we split.
A marriage under pressure
“They’re putting on a united front, but Meghan in the UK is a ticking time bomb,” says an insider.
“If she’s agreed to this to avoid a divorce, there’s a big risk this could make things worse. “Keeping their home in Montecito suggests they’re keeping all options open, including a separation.”
Dad’s dying
The timing of Harry’s bombshell – just days after the Queen shared details about her husband’s cancer battle – has sparked fears Harry’s unexpected return could be a sign the King’s health is worsening.
“Barely anyone in the King’s own inner circle is aware of the extent or the finer details of His Majesty’s medical condition,” a source says.
“But there’s no doubt that Harry has been feeling great sadness over an enduring disconnect, especially amid his father’s cancer battle.”
Making up for lost time
Having secured a long-awaited reunion between his dad, 77, and his grandkids in July, we’re told the “overzealous” prince now wants “to make up for lost time”.
Our insider adds, “Charles wants this relationship, but he wants to rebuild it at a pace that’s comfortable for him. The problem is, it’s becoming pretty obvious that Harry wants to see his dad as often as physically possible.”
Revenge on Wills
While the King learnt of the Sussexes’ plans just days before the announcement, the Prince and Princess of Wales were blindsided – a move Harry is said to have orchestrated!
“That tells you everything,” an insider says.
“If this were really about rebuilding trust with the royal family, the palace would have been given the respect of making the announcement.”
William’s fury
It’s a sentiment William, 44, agrees with.
Speaking exclusively to Woman’s Day, a well-placed source says, “William’s team is in intense meetings on how to minimise any risk to him and the family. “He’ll be seeking advice from everyone – from lawyers to diplomatic crisis experts.
“He’s furious and telling anyone who’ll listen that Harry can’t be trusted and that he doesn’t want him back in the UK.”
The money’s run out!
Rumours are rife that the couple’s return is because they’ve run out of money. But Harry reportedly has a plan to make some more cash – and the move back to the UK is all part of the strategy!
“Harry’s been working for months on a follow-up to Spare,” our insider reveals.
“He wants to set the record straight and make things right. There’s also rumours he’s negotiating a TV deal, which will be setting off alarm bells for everyone that he’s using this relocation as more tell-all material.”
Cousin love
Dedicated parents Harry and Meghan know that keeping Archie and Lili away from their cousins – Prince George, 13, Princess Charlotte, 11, and Prince Louis, eight – isn’t fair.
A royal cousin reunion
“Archie and Lili loved their recent time in the UK,” reveals our source.
“It was a truly magical experience and they’ve been raving about it almost nonstop ever since. “For them, the standout is that they’ll finally have the chance to get to know their cousins. It’s been tough to be so far away from them.”
