Prince Harry and Meghan Markle may be running out of time to rebuild their public image in the U.K., according to an insider. An insider claims the couple could abandon their return to Britain within six months if public opinion does not improve.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle could abandon their UK plans within six months, per source
Harry and Meghan gave up their royal duties and moved to California in 2020. Since then, the Sussexes have been at the center of controversy over their explosive disclosures to the media. Harry’s memoir Spare included several allegations about the royal family, further straining his relationship with his relatives.
The Sussexes returned to the U.K. in August 2026, six years after stepping down from their royal duties. Although the couple has not publicly described the move as an attempt to repair their reputation, sources have suggested that improving public perception was among their hopes.
Recent YouGov figures indicate that winning back public support may prove difficult. Polling figures released on October 29 show that only 29% of Britons have a positive opinion of Prince Harry, while Meghan’s favourable rating stands at just 20%. The Duchess also has a negative rating of 68%, leaving her with a net favourability score of minus 48.
Speaking to Rob Shuter’s Naughty But Nice, a source claimed the couple had expected a much warmer reception following their return.
“They thought coming back would change everything. They believed the British public would welcome them home and give them another chance. But returning to Britain doesn’t automatically mean Britain wants them back,” the insider said.
Another source claimed the Sussexes could reconsider their stay if public opinion fails to improve.
“Give it six months. If things don’t turn around, they will decide Britain is no longer worth the effort and head elsewhere. They wanted a redemption story, but winning back public trust takes more than just returning to the country you insulted,” they said.
The couple’s return has not yet resulted in a publicly confirmed reconciliation with Prince William. Harry has reportedly spent time with King Charles, but a reunion with his brother has yet to be confirmed.
