Following his departure from royal life four years ago, Prince Harry finds himself navigating a complex landscape of past grievances and future ambitions. Royal commentator Roya Nikkhah, royals editor for The Sunday Times, observes that the Duke of Sussex has been engaging in considerable reflection. This introspection comes as Harry faces legal battles over his security arrangements, a situation stemming from his decision to step down as a senior royal in 2020.
Nikkhah suggests that Harry's upcoming court appearances in the UK might further draw him back into past conflicts. However, she emphasizes his contentment with family life in the United States, highlighting his joy in fatherhood. The challenge for the Duke, according to Nikkhah, lies in defining a significant role for himself on the global stage, potentially focusing on humanitarian endeavors.
Nikkhah's reporting for The Times, preceding Harry's 40th birthday, depicted a royal grappling with the consequences of his transition to Californian life. These included a strained relationship with his father, King Charles III, and a near-irreparable rift with his brother, Prince William.
Despite the reported tensions, Nikkhah dismisses any prospect of Harry returning to a partial working royal role, citing a lack of interest from both Harry and the royal family. She believes Harry's focus is not on resuming official duties but on forging his own path, possibly centered on humanitarian work. While acknowledging the possibility of Harry joining family events, she underscores the absence of any desire on either side for a return to official royal engagements.
Nikkhah points to Harry's recent UK visits for charitable events and the Invictus Games as evidence of his continued engagement with causes he supports. However, she confirms the ongoing estrangement between Harry and his brother, revealing they haven't communicated in over two years.
Recent reports in The Telegraph suggest that Harry's legal action against the UK government over his security is further complicating his relationship with King Charles. A constitutional expert quoted in the report highlighted the awkwardness of the King's son suing the King's ministers in the King's courts. Furthermore, concerns were raised about the potential legal ramifications should Harry publicly disclose private conversations with his father regarding the case.
Royal expert Shannon Felton Spence suggests that Harry's reflections are natural, given the unexpected turns his life has taken post-royal exit. She notes the impact of the pandemic on the Sussexes' plans and acknowledges their struggles in establishing their new roles in the US. While acknowledging Harry's apparent happiness as a father, Felton Spence observes a sense of wistfulness for his former role as a working royal, a job he excelled at.
