Prince Harry's blunt seven words could reveal real reason he left Firm

Prince Harry reportedly previously revealed that he didn't want Archie following in his great-grandmother, the late Queen Elizabeth II's footsteps.

By Lauren Welch, Royal Reporter based in London, Catherine Meyer-Funnell, Royal Reporter based in London

prince harry back in 2023 in the uk

Prince Harry claimed he didn't want Archie following in his late grandmother's footsteps (Image: GETTY)

Prince Harry made a blunt seven-word comment about Prince Archie's future just months before he stepped down as a senior working royal, it has been reported.

The Duke of Sussex, who left the Royal Family with his wife Meghan Markle at the start of 2020, appeared to hint at his departure during a conversation with his close friend, Dr Jane Goodall. The anthropologist and conservationist, who has been a longtime friend of Harry's, came to visit the new parents and their then-newborn son, as reported by the Mirror.

Upon arriving at Frogmore Cottage to interview Harry for a special Forces for Change edition of Vogue magazine, royal expert Robert Lacey claimed Dr Goodall was allowed to hold Archie - after Meghan cradled the sweet newborn in her arms.

Recalling Ms Goodall's words in his book, 'Battle of Brothers', the author wrote: "He was very tiny and very sleepy. I think I was one of the first people to cuddle him outside the family. I made Archie do the Queen's wave saying, 'I suppose he'll have to learn this. Harry's reaction brooked no doubt, 'No! He's not growing up like that'."

Just a few months later, Harry and Meghan revealed their decision to step down. The pair, along with Archie, moved to the US. Meghan and Harry later welcomed their daughter, Lilibet, now aged three.

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Prince Harry warned as he faces huge dilemma over bringing Archie and Lilibet to the UK

EXCLUSIVE: A PR expert has spoken about the issues Prince Harry could face if he brings Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet over to the UK.

Renae Smith, founder and director of the Atticism, told Express.co.uk: "The Invictus Games in 2027 could indeed be a strategic opportunity for Prince Harry to bring his children to the UK. Given that they haven't visited since 2022, their presence could symbolise a gesture of goodwill and a desire to reconnect with his roots.

"This move could generate positive publicity, highlighting the importance of family unity and the continuation of his charitable efforts in the UK.

"It is crucial to handle this situation delicately. There is a risk that some might perceive this as 'using' the children to mend his [Prince Harry's] relationship with the Royal Family, which could attract negative attention."

Prince Harry

Prince Harry may want his children to visit the UK (Image: Getty)

Meghan Markle spotted clutching onto £5.3k bag with Duchess of Sussex logo on it

During her lunch with Kimberly Williams-Paisley at Tre Lune in Montecito Meghan was seen holding a very special bag.

The Duchess of Sussex carried a personalised Dior Lady bag worth £5,300.

The world-famous bag was launched in 1994 and became a firm favourite among fashionistas worldwide after the late Princess Diana wore it in 1995.

Diana was reportedly gifted the bag by then France's first lady Bernadette Chirac and used it on several occasions, which led to the French fashion house renaming it after her, according to Marie Claire.

However, Meghan's bag appeared to be the same one she wore back in 2021, a personalised version featuring the initials "DSSOS" for Duchess of Sussex.

Meghan Markle claps

Meghan owns a personalised Dior bag (Image: Getty)

Prince Harry faces huge Invictus Games backlash as Birmingham locals make same complaint

Prince Harry may be excited about the Invictus Games coming to Birmingham in 2027, but some residents have their concerns.

Many are excited about the Games, but others fear it will be too expensive for the city which declared bankruptcy last year.

Several cost-cutting measures are being put in place, with many hoping the council will not prioritise Invictus over other needs.

Prince Harry holds up award

Prince Harry is coming to Birmingham (Image: Getty)

Meghan Markle flaunts £69,000 worth of jewellery on casual dinner date with Hollywood pal

Meghan Markle was spotted enjoying a meal out with her friend Kimberly Williams-Paisley in California.

As she tucked into pasta and wine at Tre Lune in Montecito Meghan wore a crisp white oversized shirt tucked into light blue wash jeans, beige Chanel flats and her personalised Lady Dior bag.

The outfit was accessorised with Cartier's Juste Un Clou necklace (£15,500), the same brand's gold Tank Française watch (£28,200) and yellow gold Love bracelet (£7,050), Ariel Gordon's Imperial disc pendant necklace (£1,979) and Lorraine Schwartz's Against Evil Eye Five Eye diamond pave bracelet (£16,000).

Meghan claps in Invictus crowd

Meghan loves expensive jewellery (Image: Getty)

Prince William and Princess Kate faced with 'awkward' situation as Harry set for UK return

Prince Harry is due to return to the UK in 2027 for the Invictus Games, which will be held in Birmingham.

This may cause a tricky situation for Prince William and Princess Kate, who are no longer on speaking terms with the Sussexes following the royal feud.

Dorothy Reddin wrote for GB News: "The Royal Family would almost certainly have to consider the optics of a major sporting event being held in the heart of the UK and no visibility from Harry's immediate family, thus placing the Waleses in an awkward position.

"William and Kate could run the risk of appearing cold if they failed to show public support for the Duke of Sussex."

Kate and William eating

William and Kate may face an awkward reunion (Image: Getty)

Prince William's cheeky first words to Meghan Markle during meeting

Prince William had some interesting words to say to Meghan Markle when they first met.

According to Finding Freedom, a book written by authors Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand, their first encounter was a sweet one, with the future King welcoming Meghan into the fold.

The book claimed William said: "I was looking forward to meeting the girl who has put that silly grin on my brother's face."

Prince William

William was initially keen to meet Meghan (Image: Getty)

Inside Meghan Markle's new Netflix show with famous faces and Prince Harry appearance

Meghan Markle will feature some celebrity pals on her new Netflix show, which the platform has claimed will celebrate the "joys of cooking, gardening, entertaining and friendship".

An insider has told OK! Magazine viewers can expect cameos from Prince Harry and Serena Williams, among others, with the tennis star also featuring on her podcast Archetypes.

The source added Meghan "really enjoyed being back in front of the camera".

They explained: "She was totally in her element, demonstrating her skills in the kitchen and sharing tips on how to be the perfect hostess."

Meghan Markle in white dress at gala

Meghan is making a new show with Netflix (Image: Getty)

Meghan Markle's nine-word statement on Kamala Harris as she replaces Joe Biden

Back in 2020 Meghan Markle expressed her love for Kamala Harris, suggesting she and Prince Harry will be voting Democrat.

She said: "I'm so excited to see that kind of representation."

"You know, for me, being biracial, growing up, whether it was a doll or a person in office, you need to see someone who looks like you in some capacity.

"As many of us believe, you can only be what you can see. And in the absence of that, how can you aspire to something greater than what you see in your own world?"

Meghan Markle

Meghan is a supporter of Kamala Harris (Image: Getty)

Real King Charles behind closed doors exposed by ex-staff member - 'he's only human'

A former employee of the Royal Family has exposed what working for King Charles was really like behind closed doors.

The former staffer told the Daily Beast: "Charles can have a terrible temper... Anything he perceives as incompetence particularly brings it out. He doesn't suffer fools gladly.

"In fairness to him, as anyone who has actually worked with him will tell you, he himself is always extremely well prepared, well-read on the subject matter of people he meets and is working with, diligent and respectful of expertise."

King Charles at garden party

King Charles is a good person to work for generally (Image: Getty)

Princess Kate in royal 'first' as she pays subtle tribute during latest appearance

Princess Kate was praised for wearing a purple Safiyaa dress at Wimbledon this year, a "first" for the stylish royal.

Tobias Kormind, managing director at 77 Diamonds, told GB News: "Kate’s stunning and distinctive new Wimbledon statement look comprised a purple dress (paying tribute to the Wimbledon colours) which was a first for the Princess.

"She paired this rich and regal hue with large, statement yellow gold earrings, the perfect combination, and in contrast to some of the more dainty jewels she has sometimes worn at Wimbledon in the past."

Kate and Charlotte watch Wimbledon

Princess Kate wore purple on Centre Court (Image: Getty)

Bizarre reason King Charles is listed as buying £5.1m apartment in New York

King Charles has been listed as the buyer for a lavish apartment in New York, even though he will never live in it.

The apartment will instead become " the official residence for Canada's consul general" in the city.

The King is still the Head of State in Canada.

King Charles

King Charles is listed on the apartment as a technicality (Image: Getty)

Prince Harry 'wounded deeply' by Prince William's 'ultimate revenge' as 'feud grows'

Prince Harry is said to be deeply "wounded" after losing out on a military appointment to his brother, Prince William.

Royal expert Emily Andrews told Woman magazine: "He repeatedly voiced his sadness in having to give up his honorary military appointments after he and Meghan quit royal duties to seek their fortunes overseas.

"Old pals say it will have wounded him deeply to see his elder brother, Prince William, handed the role of Colonel-in-Chief of his former organisation, the Army Air Corps, by Charles."

Prince Harry waves

Prince Harry is passionate about his military career (Image: Getty)

The one thing Prince Andrew and Fergie still do together - 28 years after divorce

Prince Andrew and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson remain good friends, and still keep up one tradition.

The couple would have been celebrating 38 years of marriage today, having tied the knot on July 23, 1986. However, they announced their separation in 1992 - and officially divorced in 1996.

As reported by the Mirror, Sarah previously shared that still "sit round the table and have afternoon tea together".

Speaking of the ritual, the 64-year-old added: "It's a very important part of our lives."

Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson

The Duke and Duchess of York remain close (Image: Getty)

Sophie Winkleman reveals what Royal Family are really like behind closed doors

Actress Sophie Winkleman opened up about what marrying into the Royal Family was really like for her.

The Peep Show star married Lord Freddie Windsor, the son of Prince Michael of Kent, in 2009.

Previously discussing her welcome into the family with the Spectator, Sophie said: "I wouldn’t have thought that they would be such a warm, loving people but I’ve got a lovely new family and it’s a real privilege and a joy.

"It’s been a privilege. It’s been very interesting. I’d never have known how incredibly hard the family works if I haven’t been inside it."

The Royal Family in 2019

Sophie Winkleman has had a positive experience with the royals (Image: Getty)

Good afternoon

Good afternoon from London, I'm Catherine Meyer-Funnell and I'll be bringing you all the very latest royal updates into this evening. Feel free to get in touch at cathey.meyerfunnell@reachplc.com

Unusual reason Prince George won't be heading to secondary school in September

Prince George is currently enjoying a relaxing two month summer holiday from school.

Prince George turned 11 on Monday (Image: GETTY)

Duchess Sophie's sandals drop by £30 in royal-approved designer brand's summer sale

Penelope Chilvers is a British heritage brand that designs timeless footwear and accessories made to last. Over the years, pieces from the designer have been worn by members of the royal family, including Kate Middleton who has had their Long Tassel Boots for decades. 

Sophie Wessex, the Duchess of Edinburgh, also owns a pair of Penelope Chilvers shoes - the High Catalina Cotton Espadrilles. Sizes of her exact pair are limited, however, we've found a closed-toe alternative from Penelope Chilvers that you can snap up for less than £70.

Duchess Sophie (Image: GETTY)

Meghan Markle took Prince Archie on 'secret holiday' instead of annual Balmoral trip

The customary tradition for the Royal Family to reside at Balmoral for the summer was shunned by Meghan Markle when she'd just given birth to Prince Archie. The Scottish Highlands estate was a firm favourite of the late Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles appears keen to continue the traditions associated with the summer getaway.

However, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry reportedly skipped the Balmoral break one year shortly after Prince Archie was born. Royal author, Tom Bower claimed in his explosive book about Meghan and Harry, called Revenge, that Meghan felt Archie was "too young at three months to travel by plane to Scotland".

Archie was born in May 2019 (Image: GETTY)

Lady Colin Campbell rips into Meghan Markle as she celebrates her dad's 80th birthday

Lady Colin Campbell has taken a swipe at Meghan Markle as she helps to celebrate the Duchess of Sussex's estranged father's birthday.

Thomas Markle, who is known to have been estranged from Meghan since 2018, celebrated his 80th birthday on July 18.

Lady Colin has taken a swipe at Meghan (Image: GETTY)

'Anxious' Prince Harry 'planning month-long UK visit' to face royals without Meghan Markle

Prince Harry is "anxiously" planning a "month-long" trip to the United Kingdom to visit his family without Meghan Markle, insiders claim.

The 39-year-old is said to be keen to "reconnect" with the Royal Family. And a month-long trip would help him spend more time with his father, King Charles, and aunt Princess Anne.

Prince Harry is reportedly anxious about an upcoming trip to the UK (Image: GETTY)

Meghan Markle set to snub Harry's Invictus Games due to major fear about returning to UK

The Duke of Sussex's Invictus Games is set to return to the UK in 2027 but Meghan Markle may snub the event because of security fears.It comes as Birmingham has won the bid to host the next Invictus Games, beating off competition from Washington DC.Despite being present at previous Games and supporting her husband who co-founded the event, Meghan has not returned to the UK for engagements since she stepped down as a senior working royal in 2020.

Meghan could be set to snub the UK again in 2027 (Image: GETTY)

BBC star hits back at Meghan Markle after 'orchestrated' engagement interview claim

Mishal Husain, who conducted Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's 2017 official BBC engagement interview back in 2017, has furiously hit out after the Duchess of Sussex described it as an "orchestrated reality show".

Speaking in the couple's bombshell Netflix series in 2022, Meghan claimed that the chat was like a "reality show" and that Mishal was "not empathetic enough enough and not warm enough".

Meghan and Harrt were interviewed in 2017 (Image: BBC)

Prince Harry reveals which royal first called him 'spare' - and it's not who you think

Prince Harry has revealed that it was his father King Charles who originally gave him the 'spare' label, as he shared the story in his memoir of the same name.

Princess Diana gave birth to their second son Harry in September 1984, with Charles making a surprising comment about the new royal baby.

Prince Harry reveals who first called him a 'spare' (Image: GETTY)

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Prince Harry planning next trip to UK but Meghan Markle unlikely to join for key reason

Prince Harry is due to return to the UK later this year for the wedding celebration of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant, according to a source, but Meghan Markle is not likely to be joining him.

The mega-rich Indian couple wed in Mumbai earlier this month, at a ceremony attended by Sir Tony Blair and Kim Kardashian, amongst others.

Meghan is not set to join Harry in the UK (Image: GETTY)

New Prince George picture taken by mum Princess Kate to mark his 11th birthday

Prince George is celebrating his 11th birthday today and Kensington Palace have released a new picture of the youngster to mark his special day.

The black and white shot shows the young royal grinning at the camera dressed in a crisp white shirt and suit.

Prince Geoge turned 11 yesterday (Image: Kensington Palace)

Good morning

Good morning from London. I'm Lauren Welch and I'll be bringing you all the latest royal news into this afternoon. Please feel free to reach out via email at lauren.welch@reachplc.com

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