As Prince Harry contemplates a life split between the UK and the US, he reportedly feels disconnected from his old friends, who are critical of his wife, Meghan Markle.
Prince Harry's dissatisfaction originates from his friends' reluctance to meet him in the US due to their disapproval of Meghan Markle, the New York Post reported.
Living in Montecito, California, with Meghan and their two children, Archie and Lilibet, Harry has navigated significant changes since departing the UK. His last visit in May was primarily for the Invictus Games, an event marking its 10th anniversary, where he noticeably avoided old acquaintances.
The couple also missed significant events in the UK, including the wedding of Hugh Grosvenor, Archie's close friend and godfather. Their absence at these social gatherings underscores the strained relations with Harry's UK circle.
Royal expert Tom Quinn sheds light on the situation, noting that Harry's friends feel a sense of betrayal, mainly how he depicted his military service in his memoir 'Spare.' This has contributed to their reluctance to reconcile their friendship.
Harry is reportedly exploring property options in the UK in response to these social rifts. His increasing interest in establishing a foothold in the US and the UK speaks to his ongoing struggle to find a balance between his new life and his connections to home.
According to Grant Harrold, former butler to King Charles, Harry has been considering this transatlantic living arrangement for some time.
Meanwhile, Meghan focuses on advancing her Hollywood career, further indicating the couple's long-term planning to accommodate their diverse personal interests and commitments.
Quinn describes a significant transformation in Harry since his marriage, referring to him as "Harry the Hippy." According to Quinn, this new persona seems incompatible with the expectations and lifestyles of his UK friends and family, leading to further alienation.
The couple's absence from the Royal Family's appearance at the Trooping the Colour ceremony in 2024 highlighted their detachment from the royal family engagements.
Despite these challenges, Harry's decision on June 29, 2023, to renounce his British residency and declare the US his new home state is a bold move, signaling his commitment to his family's current dynamics, albeit a complicated one.
Shortly after attending the Invictus Games, Harry and Meghan were seen in Nigeria, with photographs dated May 11 illustrating their continued commitment to international humanitarian efforts despite personal controversies.
This aspect of their life has remained consistent, with their global activities reflecting their shared passion for philanthropy, a cornerstone of their public persona.
The complexity of Harry's relationships and public image presents a challenging narrative as he navigates friendships, family ties, and public expectations across continents.
In summary, Prince Harry finds himself at a crossroads between his past affiliations and his current life in the US with Meghan.
The couple's missed appearances at critical events and Harry's property searches in the UK suggest a desire for a bi-continental existence that accommodates his familial obligations and personal connections.
Their participation in global initiatives, like their recent trip to Nigeria, emphasizes their continuous engagement with broader societal issues despite personal challenges and public scrutiny.
