Prince William and Kate Middleton are reportedly avoiding an emotional reaction to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s UK return. The Sussexes arrived in Birmingham on August 26 with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, after spending six years in California. The couple plans to live in Britain for an extended period of time. Well-wishers are reportedly hopeful that the brothers use this opportunity to fix their fractured relationship. However, the Prince and Princess of Wales are countering any “knee-jerk” reactions.
Prince William and Kate Middleton’s plan after Harry’s return revealed by sources
Prince William and Kate Middleton are reportedly cautious after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s UK return. A source shared with PEOPLE that Harry’s return provides him the “best opportunity” to mend ties with his older brother. Another source chimed in and revealed that William and Kate are avoiding any “knee-jerk reaction” to the move.
The source explained: “They are watching this space. It’s private — they don’t feel the need to say anything or demonstrate anything outwardly.” The insider hasn’t ruled out the possibility of a reunion but warned that any reconciliation between the royal princes will be a “slow build.” “There is a deep sense of betrayal,” the insider added.
As per a previous report by PEOPLE, Harry and Meghan will live in a private, non-royal home, rumored to be in the Cotswolds. The couple will continue to retain their Montecito and Portugal homes as well. Their children, Archie and Lilibet, have been enrolled in a British school and will begin their new school term starting this month.
King Charles was “made aware” of the couple’s plans on August 16 and reportedly welcomed the idea of meeting his son and grandchildren in a private capacity. Reports have differed, however, over how much Prince William and Kate Middleton knew about the move beforehand.
So far, there has reportedly been no sign of a reunion with the royal family. Previously, the Duke of Sussex extended an olive branch to the royal family in an interview with the BBC in 2025. He said: “I would love reconciliation with my family. There’s no point in continuing to fight anymore.”
