The expected return of Prince Harry and Meghan to Britain could lead to two rival royal courts, according to former BBC royal correspondent Peter Hunt. His assessment was published on Thursday.
Avisen Danmark reports that Hunt made the comments to the news agency PA Media. In the long term, he said, the couple’s return to Britain opens the possibility of two rival courts, William’s and Harry’s. The article was distributed by the Danish news agency Ritzau on August 20, 2026.
Hunt also assumes that Prince William was shocked by the news. In the short term, he said, Harry will be able to continue his reconciliation with his father. Harry’s presence at home will also make it difficult for his brother to avoid a reconciliation of their own.
A number of British media outlets have learned that Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan are moving back to the United Kingdom from the United States later this month. Their two children, Archie, 7, and Lilibet, 5, are enrolled to start at a British school in September. The reports have not been officially confirmed.
Speaking on Thursday, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he wishes Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan well with their move, according to Sky News. He said the question of their security is a private matter. King Charles was informed of the relocation plans on Sunday, the BBC reports, and there are no plans for the couple to resume roles as working members of the royal family.
Reuters reported on August 19 that the couple plan to move back to Britain for an extended period. The agency cited People magazine and the British newspaper The Telegraph for details on the school enrollment. Reuters places the move in the context of the couple’s 2020 decision to step back from royal duties.
The BBC reports that the family will live in a private, non-royal residence outside London rather than in an official royal home. According to ABC News, citing a source familiar with the matter, the couple will remain private individuals and non-working royals. ABC News attributes to The Telegraph that they will keep homes in California and Portugal.
Why now
Several outlets tie the timing of the move to the school term. CNN, the BBC and ABC News all report that Archie and Lilibet have been registered for a British school for the coming term, which begins in September 2026. The relocation comes six years after the couple left the United Kingdom.
