Former royal butler Grant Harrold and royal expert Kristen Meinzer reveal why Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s reunion with the royal family may happen, but things will never be the same.
The strained relationship between Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and the British royal family continues to make headlines. Now, former royal butler Grant Harrold has shed new light on the possibility of a reconciliation, while royal expert Kristen Menzer believes King Charles could be the key to a new chapter.
Once close brothers, now estranged
Grant Harrold, who worked closely with King Charles from 2004 to 2011, reflected on the once unbreakable relationship between Prince Harry and Prince William. According to Harrold, the two brothers were not only siblings but also best friends in their late teens and early 20s. They often spent time together in pubs and had a deep bond.
Harold revealed, “William and Harry were very close, like brothers. If someone had told me at the time that they would have a falling out, I would have bet £100 that it would never happen.”
However, the reality today is very different. The two princes are barely even on speaking terms, which Harold describes as “truly heartbreaking”.
Could a royal reunion happen?
Amid growing speculation of a possible reunion, Harold believes a reconciliation could happen, but things would never be the same.
He explained, “I can imagine a reconciliation, I can see Harry coming back, but not the same as before in the Firm.” According to him, even if Harry and Meghan rejoin the royal family, the situation will inevitably change.
King Charles vs Queen Elizabeth: A different perspective
Royal commentator Kristen Menzer believes King Charles could offer Harry and Meghan something that Queen Elizabeth II never did – a flexible arrangement.
Speaking to the Daily Express US, Menzer said Harry never wanted to give up his royal role completely. Instead, he envisioned a blended position, similar to what Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex once enjoyed.
Menzer said, “The Queen did not give Harry and Meghan the same opportunities, nor did the institution take the racism Meghan faced as seriously as it deserved.”
She added, “But Charles is not their mother. If he ensures security as well as flexibility, Harry and Meghan could consider returning.”
What could change if Harry returns?
If Prince Harry does return to the royal family, experts suggest it could be in a part-time or blended role. This would allow them to strike a balance between royal duties and their life in the US, which they have openly expressed interest in.
Harry has often reiterated that a complete separation was never his plan. Instead, he wanted the freedom to serve both his family and the monarchy on his own terms. Under Charles’ leadership, this possibility could finally take shape.
The way forward for Harry and Meghan
While reconciliation appears possible, it is clear that the dynamics of the royal family have permanently changed. The relationship between William and Harry may never be as deep as before, but a new arrangement under King Charles’ leadership could pave the way for a healthier and more modern relationship.
Whether Harry and Meghan embrace this opportunity or not, only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – their return will reshape the monarchy in a way that reflects today’s world rather than yesterday’s traditions.