Prince Harry and King Charles met for tea at Clarence House on Wednesday, their first meeting in 20 months, in what observers see as a step toward easing tensions within the royal family.
The Duke of Sussex last saw his father in February 2024 after Buckingham Palace announced that the king, now 76, was undergoing cancer treatment. Palace officials confirmed the private meeting, which took place ahead of Harry’s appearance at an Invictus Games event in London. Asked about his father’s health, Harry replied: “Yes, he’s great, thank you.”
Harry, 40, who moved to California in 2020 with his wife Meghan and their children, has frequently criticised the monarchy in media appearances and in his memoir Spare, straining ties with both Charles and Prince William. Despite past tensions, he has recently expressed a wish for reconciliation, saying earlier this year that “life is precious” and that he no longer sees value in conflict.
Reports in recent months suggested that aides from both sides had explored the possibility of a meeting. Royal historian Anthony Seldon described the reunion as significant, noting: “The king is the king, but he’s also a human being and a loving father. If the rift can be healed, that is all to the good.”
