Prince Harry is returning to London this Monday for a children’s charity event. But many people wonder: after years of tension and hurt, will he finally meet his father, King Charles III?
The last time Harry saw his father was in February 2024. Harry flew from his home in California to London after hearing that King Charles had been diagnosed with cancer.
They met briefly at Clarence House, the King’s residence, but Harry soon returned to the United States after staying only one night in a London hotel.
Since then, Harry has come back to the UK three times but has not met King Charles. In May, Harry made a heartfelt plea for reconciliation during a BBC interview. Tearfully, he said,
“I would love reconciliation with my family. I don’t know how much longer my father has.” He also admitted, “He won’t speak to me… but it would be nice to reconcile.”
These words might have prompted King Charles to reach out to Harry. In July, the King’s press secretary and Harry’s new communications head were seen meeting in London, sparking rumors that talks for a family reunion could be underway.
Royal experts believe a meeting is possible. Historian Ed Owens said, “I think reconciliation is on the cards. The King understands it is important for his public image to try and heal the family’s divisions.”
Harry will attend an awards ceremony for the WellChild charity, which honors seriously ill children, on Monday night. He has other events scheduled for the week. Meanwhile, King Charles will be in Scotland for the annual Highland Games near his Balmoral Castle.
If a meeting does happen, experts say it will likely be private and discreet. Royal commentator Joe Little noted that the July meeting between aides “showed there is a channel of communication.” He added, “The King still loves Harry very much, but much has happened to cause pain.”
The royal family has been deeply affected by revelations in Harry’s biography, Spare, and his 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey. Harry accused some family members of making racist comments and spoke openly about family conflicts. His brother, Prince William, was reportedly upset by Harry’s criticisms.
Harry’s wife, Meghan Markle, has not returned to the UK since the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022. Their children, Archie (6) and Lilibet (4), last visited the UK for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams described any potential meeting as “the first steps” toward healing. However, Fitzwilliams also pointed out that Prince William opposes fully welcoming Harry back into the family fold at this time.
The question remains: Will this visit mark the beginning of a new chapter for the fractured royal family?
