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Royals news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
King Charles confirmed Harry and Meghan remain non-working royals after their UK return.
The letter clarifies their status as private citizens, ending speculation about royal duties.
Background
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped down from senior royal roles in 2020 and moved to California. They recently returned to the UK with their children for an extended stay, sparking questions about their royal status. King Charles authorized a letter to clarify that their status remains unchanged, as per the Sandringham Agreement.
How it unfolded
- Jan 2020Harry and Meghan step down as working royals and move to the US.
- Aug 2026The couple returns to the UK with their children for an extended stay.
- Sep 7, 2026King Charles authorizes a letter confirming they remain non-working royals, sent to government and military officials.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- The Palace states their position is akin to private citizens with commercial and charitable interests.
- Public
- Some royal sources say Harry and Meghan were 'surprised' by the letter, though they were aware before it was public.
Still unverified
Reports that Harry and Meghan were 'surprised' by the letter are based on royal sources and not officially confirmed.