The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are expected to spend their seventh Christmas in a row away from the royal family, despite earlier hopes that relations might be improving.
In September, Prince Harry made a solo visit to the UK, during which he reunited with his father, King Charles, for the first time in 19 months. Buckingham Palace later confirmed that the two met privately for tea at Clarence House, the King’s London home. However, the meeting reportedly lasted less than an hour.
News of this meeting, along with reports that Harry’s reduced UK security arrangements are being reviewed again, sparked speculation that he might rejoin the royal family for Christmas.
But royal biographer Tom Bower has dismissed that idea. Speaking to OK! Magazine, he said Harry may have hoped the meeting would help him rebuild his place within the family, but believes reconciliation is unlikely. Bower added that while Harry has publicly spoken about concerns over his father’s health, he does not believe Harry is a priority for the King at this time.