King Charles and Prince William are “completely united” on blocking Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from any royal representation, a royal author has claimed.
Russell Myers, royal author, said that the monarch, 76, and the Prince of Wales, 43, are “on the same page” regarding the Sussexes’ status following their return to the United Kingdom at the end of August. The couple had spent six years in California after stepping back from royal duties in 2020.
“It is well known that in January 2020 the Duke and Duchess stepped down from undertaking representative duties on behalf of the Sovereign, and are no longer working members of the Royal Family,” the King’s letter began, making clear that Harry and Meghan would remain “private citizens with commercial and charitable interests.”
Myers emphasized the alignment between father and eldest son, stating, “The King and William are completely united on the Sussexes not representing the royal family,” He added, “It’s without a doubt how in sync they are on this matter.”
The King’s letter, published amid the couple’s return, spelled out several concrete restrictions. The couple would not resume the royal duties they abandoned in 2020. Their charitable work would be handled “in their private capacity” as a “personal matter for them both.” Additionally, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex would not be permitted to use the titles “His and Her Royal Highness.”
“This position, distinct from the State and Royal duties undertaken by the working Royal Family, and with the personal latitude it brings the couple in respect of financial independence and protection of their privacy as they would wish, will continue to be fully respected,” Charles wrote.
Harry’s team indicated the communication had landed without warning. They said, “We were a little surprised not to have been told about this in advance.”
Despite the formal distance, some warmth has persisted between father and younger son. Harry brought his children, Archie and Lilibet, to visit Highgrove House. The father and son had also met in February 2024 following Charles’ cancer diagnosis, and again in September 2025.
William has offered no public statement on his brother’s return. The siblings last occupied the same room during King Charles’ coronation in 2023.
The couple has otherwise kept a low profile since arriving in Britain. Their return has already encountered complications: earlier this week, they pulled their children from school after just two days due to what a spokesperson described as security concerns.
“The decision for the children to move school was taken following a discussion with the family’s security team about the practicalities of their current arrangements,” the spokesperson said. “The parents remain extremely grateful to all the teachers and staff for the love, care and effort they have shown their family.” The statement added, “This decision should in no way be interpreted as a reflection on the school or the exceptional care the children have received there.”
Harry is expected to appear at the WellChild charity award ceremony later this month.
