King Charles’s dissatisfaction with the limited access to his grandchildren, Archie and Lilibet, has become a point of tension within the royal family, according to sources close to the matter. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, have settled in Montecito, California, with their children, leaving a significant geographical and emotional gap between them and the British monarchy
According to reports by GB News, Since their relocation to the United States in 2020 after stepping down from their roles as working royals, Harry and Meghan have established a life far from the UK. Archie and Lilibet have not visited the UK since 2022. Although Prince Harry has returned to London on multiple occasions, including two visits in 2024, his family has remained in the US.
A significant moment occurred in February 2024 when Prince Harry traveled to the UK to meet King Charles following the announcement of the King’s cancer diagnosis. Despite this personal visit, Meghan and the children did not accompany him, further highlighting the distance within the family. According to an insider, King Charles is distressed by the infrequent contact with his grandchildren, who he has largely seen only through video calls facilitated by Harry.
The source noted, “The King is absolutely committed to being present in all of his grandchildren’s lives. He values family above everything, and whatever the course of his relationship with his son, he would never be content with just seeing his grandchildren on the odd video call.”
The King has reportedly had only one in-person meeting with his granddaughter, Princess Lilibet. This limited interaction has been a source of pain for the monarch, who is known for his dedication to family.
Royal commentator Michael Cole elaborated on the King’s feelings during an appearance on GB News. “I think the King feels hurt by the fact that he does not see his grandchildren in California. It would be quite natural for any man to wish to see his grandchildren. I know for a fact that the King is very keen,” Cole said. He added, “He loves his children, he loves his grandchildren, he loves his godchildren. The fact he does not see them [Archie and Lilibet] and that is not his wish, will be very upsetting to him.
Cole also speculated on the future dynamics of the family, suggesting that it might be a considerable time before Prince Harry brings his children to visit the UK. This prolonged absence is likely to deepen King Charles’s sense of loss and frustration.
The Duke and Duchess’s decision to maintain their distance from the UK and the royal family underscores the ongoing complexities and strains within the House of Windsor. As King Charles navigates his health challenges and his responsibilities as monarch, the desire to strengthen family bonds remains a poignant and unresolved issue.
This evolving situation continues to capture public interest, reflecting broader themes of familial duty, geographic separation, and the personal sacrifices inherent in royal life. The question remains: Will the royal family find a way to bridge the gap, or will these distances only grow wider with time?
