Prince Harry is reportedly considering a shocking “hybrid” role within the Royal Family as tensions with King Charles and Prince William remain unresolved. While the Duke of Sussex appears committed to his life in the U.S. with Meghan Markle, royal insiders claim he deeply misses his old life, fueling speculation about his desire for a part-time return to royal duties. However, there’s one major obstacle standing in the way—Meghan.
A royal expert speaking to Fox News has revealed that Harry is living in “exile” in California and feels increasingly isolated. “He chose this life, but it’s lonely,” the expert shared, adding that despite his public appearances, there is no doubt that he misses his family, his friends, and the royal traditions he once cherished.
With the deepening rift between Harry and the rest of the royal family, the chances of reconciliation seem slim, but the Duke is reportedly hoping for a middle ground.
Royal sources suggest Harry is eager for a “half-in, half-out” arrangement—one where he could maintain a role within the monarchy while continuing his independent life in the U.S. This echoes the arrangement he and Meghan initially proposed before stepping down as senior royals in 2020, a request that was firmly rejected by the late Queen Elizabeth.
However, the biggest challenge in Harry’s desire to reconnect with his royal roots appears to be Meghan. Insiders claim the Duchess of Sussex remains firm in her stance that their life is in the U.S., where they have built a brand separate from the monarchy.
The royal expert emphasized, “I think Meghan is undoubtedly the dominant person in their relationship. I don’t doubt that Harry wishes they had managed to arrange a ‘half-in, half-out’ setup, especially since his military links meant so much to him.”
Harry has previously spoken about how much he values his time in the British Armed Forces, and his loss of military titles remains a sore point for him.
After stepping down as a working royal, he was stripped of key honorary military roles, including Captain General of the Royal Marines a title he inherited from his grandfather, Prince Philip. Many believe that if given the opportunity, Harry would jump at the chance to reconnect with this part of his life.
Unfortunately for him, King Charles and Prince William have no intention of revisiting the discussion. “There is no sign whatsoever of the rift in the Royal Family healing,” the expert continued.
Read More: Prince William and Kate Middleton’s Shocking Dilemma Over Prince George’s Future
“King Charles and the Prince and Princess of Wales have, to put it mildly, other priorities.” With Charles navigating health concerns and William stepping up to take on more royal duties, there appears to be little room for negotiations with Harry.
This latest revelation comes as Harry and Meghan prepare for their highly anticipated joint appearance at the 2025 Invictus Games in Canada next week. The event, founded by Harry, has remained a key passion project for the Duke, and he is expected to make a major statement during the Games.
However, the event may also serve as a reminder of how much Harry has lost—his strong military ties, his close friendships within the British Armed Forces, and his deep-rooted connection to the U.K.
Many royal watchers believe Harry is struggling with an identity crisis. On one hand, he has carved out a new life in California with Meghan, focusing on philanthropy, media projects, and brand-building.
On the other, his history, his family, and his military legacy are still deeply ingrained in who he is. The idea of a “hybrid” royal role may seem like a solution for Harry, but with tensions at an all-time high, it is unlikely that the monarchy will ever consider welcoming him back in such a capacity.
For now, Harry appears stuck between two worlds—one that he left behind but still longs for, and another that he chose but may not fully satisfy him. Meghan, on the other hand, is believed to be firmly committed to their independent future, which could make any attempt at a royal return nearly impossible.
As the Sussexes gear up for their next big public engagement, all eyes will be on Harry to see whether he embraces his new life or continues to hint at his longing for the past. Whether or not he gets his wish remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—King Charles and Prince William are in no rush to reopen the doors he once slammed shut.
