Prince Harry could return to the UK solo ahead of Queen Elizabeth’s death anniversary

Prince Harry’s Upcoming UK Visit and Meghan’s Absence

Next month, Prince Harry is gearing up for a return to his home country, the United Kingdom. This visit holds significant meaning for the Duke of Sussex, as he is scheduled to appear at the annual WellChild charity event. This event carries special significance for Harry, who has been actively participating in it for the past 15 years. The occasion is set to take place in London on September 7th, after which Harry is set to travel to Germany for the sixth edition of the Invictus Games, a sporting event he initiated. However, what’s notable about this trip is that he will be traveling solo, without the company of his wife, Meghan Markle.

Meghan Markle, aged 42, will not be accompanying Harry on this journey due to prior commitments she has with their two children, Archie and Lilibet. Despite the absence of his leading lady, Harry is resolute in his commitment to these meaningful events that hold personal and charitable importance to him.

Estranged Family and the Anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s Death

Intriguingly, this trip will also take place amid a somewhat strained relationship between Prince Harry and his estranged family. As he journeys back to the UK, the royal family will be commemorating the one-year anniversary of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. However, sources close to the situation have disclosed that Harry has not received any formal invitation to join his family at the Balmoral Castle for an intimate event that is planned for the same night.

The lack of outreach from the royal family highlights the existing tensions between Prince Harry and the rest of the family, tensions that have escalated since Harry and Meghan’s decision to step away from their royal roles in January 2020.

Reflection on Past European Appearances

It’s worth noting that this upcoming event marks a notable contrast to the past. The most recent joint appearance of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in Europe was at the funeral of the late monarch, which took place on September 19, 2022. Since then, their paths have diverged, with Harry continuing his involvement in philanthropic and charitable endeavors.

Meghan Markle’s Independent Commitments

While Meghan won’t be present alongside her husband in England, her own commitments are equally significant. She is expected to fly directly to Germany from California to attend the opening ceremony of the Invictus Games. Meghan will have the honor of delivering a personal message centered around “courage and resilience” to the injured veterans participating in the games. This speech undoubtedly reflects her genuine respect for those who have faced adversity.

Perspectives on Meghan’s Chosen Topic

Nonetheless, Meghan’s chosen topic for her speech has garnered mixed reactions. Some critics, such as Levin, have found irony in the fact that Meghan, a former actress known for her role in “Suits,” has selected “courage and resilience” as her theme, given her departure from traditional royal life. This divergence from the royal norms has been seen as a courageous move by some and a controversial one by others.

Prince Harry’s Vision: The Invictus Games

The Invictus Games, an international multi-sport event, holds a special place in Prince Harry’s heart. This event, designed for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women, both veterans and those still on active duty, aims to provide a platform for them to showcase their physical prowess and resilience. Prince Harry, who himself served in the British army for a decade, established the Invictus Games in 2014. It’s a testament to his dedication to supporting those who have sacrificed for their countries.

Spotlight on the Invictus Games: “Heart of Invictus”

The Invictus Games have garnered significant attention, to the extent that Netflix has produced a documentary titled “Heart of Invictus.” This documentary, set to be released soon, delves into the journey of setting up this annual event. In the documentary’s trailer, Prince Harry shares insights into the motivation behind founding the Invictus Games and his aspirations for creating a supportive community of veterans.

A Shift in Prince Harry’s Demeanor

Notably, Prince Harry’s involvement in the documentary showcases a distinct shift in his demeanor. Royal expert Levin observed that he appears to resemble his “former self,” reminiscent of the Harry she documented in her biography back in 2017. This change in his attitude and outlook is perceived as a positive sign, suggesting that he may be emerging from the challenges he has faced in recent times.

Meghan Markle’s Ventures Beyond the Royal Life

Meghan Markle’s journey beyond her royal status has been marked by a variety of ventures. From the debut of her “Archetypes” podcast to her desire to carve out a successful career in the entertainment industry, Meghan has been exploring new avenues. Despite the promise that her Spotify deal held, her podcast concluded after just one season, leaving questions about the direction she is aiming to take.

Looking Ahead: Meghan and Harry’s Path

As Meghan and Harry continue to navigate their post-royal lives, it’s evident that they are each embarking on individual paths. While their choices might not always align with traditional royal expectations, their commitment to causes they deeply care about remains steadfast. The upcoming events in the UK and Germany are not only opportunities for them to fulfill their charitable duties but also moments that shed light on their evolving identities in the public eye.

Mark Boardman’s Analysis

Entertainment expert Mark Boardman weighed in on Meghan Markle’s journey beyond her royal life. Boardman acknowledged the significance of Meghan’s “Archetypes” podcast, which debuted a year ago. Over this period, observers have witnessed a series of highs and lows in Meghan’s post-royal journey. While the podcast marked a substantial venture for her, it’s noteworthy that the podcast concluded after just one season, leaving some questions about her direction in the industry.

Boardman pointed out that Meghan clearly aspires to forge a successful career in the entertainment sector. The notable Spotify deal she secured held the promise of propelling her into a new direction after her acting days in “Suits.” However, the podcast’s brief run raises questions about how Meghan plans to capitalize on her new direction and build a lasting presence in the industry.

In assessing Meghan’s journey, Boardman emphasized that any move away from public controversies and headline-grabbing revelations is a positive step for both Meghan and Prince Harry. This shift aligns with their desire to carve out meaningful, productive paths that resonate with their personal values and aspirations.