Harry and Meghan to return to the UK press 'lion's den'

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are set to return to the UK press after a year-long break from royal duties. In a 2021 interview, Prince Harry expressed that the decision to leave the UK was partially due to the negative impact of the British press on his mental health. Six years later, the couple will send their children to school in the UK, meaning they will return to the media scrutiny they had sought to escape.

Royal commentator Afua Hagan noted that the British press will likely continue to follow the couple's every move, but Harry has reportedly taken steps to prepare for this. He successfully sued major publishers including Rupert Murdoch's News Group Newspapers, but lost a significant battle against the Daily Mail. While many of those accused of unlawful behavior remain in senior positions, the timing of their return is surprising to some insiders.

However, royal biographer Robert Hardman believes the couple's treatment will be different this time around, as they will likely receive the same privacy accorded to other celebrities. Despite Harry's ongoing distaste for the press, Hagan suggests they may have decided other priorities outweigh their desire for privacy. The couple's security arrangements remain a private matter, with UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham stating it is a matter for Harry and Meghan.

Buckingham Palace declined to comment on their return, but media reports indicated King Charles welcomed the opportunity to see more of his youngest son and family. A YouGov UK poll showed mixed opinions on their decision to return, with 33% believing they should not come back, 45% undecided, and 21% in favor of their relocation from the US.