Prince Harry returns to UK this week amid reconciliation rumors — will he see King Charles after 20 months?

According to Reuters, Prince Harry has returned to the United Kingdom after several 20 months, attending the annual WellChild Awards in London, an event that supports seriously ill children. The trip coincides with Queen Elizabeth II’s passing anniversary , and it has fueled speculation about whether he might reunite with his father, King Charles III.

About the Father–Son Meeting

“There is talk, growing talk, that he might well meet up with his father,” said Simon Perry, who covers the royal family in London for People magazine. “I think with any time Prince Harry comes close or relatively close to his father, and they can be in the same country, there's going to be talk that they might well get together.”

The prince, 40, last met King Charles in February of last year, after Buckingham Palace disclosed that the monarch was undergoing cancer treatment. After stepping back from royal duties in 2020 and going to California with his wife Meghan Markle, Harry has estranged from the rest of the royal family.

Harry’s Hopes for Reconciliation

Harry has expressed openly about the strain but insists he wishes to repair relationships. “Of course some members my family will never forgive me for writing a book. Of course they will never forgive me for lots of things. But you know ... I would love reconciliation with my family ... there's no point in continuing to fight anymore. And life is precious,” he said.

“I don't know how much longer my father has. He won't speak to me because of this security stuff, but it would be nice to reconcile.”

Behind-the-Scenes Attempts

Observers cited, signs of progress have already happened. In July, the king’s communications chief and Harry’s media representatives were captured holding a meeting discreetly in London, which many newspapers explained as an early attempt toward reconciliation.

“I think it's important for the image of the monarchy that the king and his younger son are seen to be on speaking terms,” historian and author Anthony Seldon said to Reuters. “I also think it's very important for both of them ... the king is the king, but he's also a human being and a loving father.”

Despite rumours over Harry and Charles, relations with Prince William remain tense. Harry is not anticipated to meet his brother on this trip, with reports mentioning the Prince of Wales is not prepared to make peace.

FAQs:

Q1. Who is King Charles III?
King Charles III is the current monarch of the United Kingdom. He ascended the throne in September 2022 following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.

Q2. Who is Prince Harry?
Prince Harry, also known as Duke of Sussex, is the younger son of King Charles III and the late Princess Diana. He stands sixth in line to the British throne.