Royal Family RECAP: Prince Harry and Meghan make surprise decision – ‘not going to follow’.TA
For years, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have hardly been seen without one another. Whether that was during their brief stint as working royals, or in the years since, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are normally always together as a team and hand-in-hand.
While this has been the case for a long time, it seems that, on a professional level, the couple are set to be more independent of one another. This comes after claims that Meghan no longer wants to follow her husband around on work trips, now that they are back living in the UK.
Instead, the duchess reportedly wants to focus on the couple’s children, Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five. Outside of work, it is believed the couple remains as loved-up as ever.
As reported by the Oxford Mail, a source said: “She’s focused on the kids and her brand. She’s not interested in following him around like some Stepford wife.
“Her view is that they should divide and conquer and Harry agrees, but it does mean a whole lot more pressure on his shoulders and absolutely zero time to himself because the moment he’s free from work he’s got to rush home to give Meghan a break from parenting duties.”
In addition to focusing on his own work, reports suggest that Harry also wants to “open doors” for his wife here in the UK. This, according to the source, is something he promised his wife when they moved back to the UK in August after six years living in America.
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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are back living in the UK (Image: Jonathan Brady / POOL / AFP via Getty Images)
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King Charles pays Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s £1.5m repair bill for Royal Lodge
The King paid Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s £1.5million repair bill on his former home Royal Lodge, as it was confirmed that the disgraced former prince has finally handed over the keys to the Windsor property. Andrew moved out of the Grade 11-listed house in January and left it in significant disrepair, with renovations needed to the main house, an outbuilding, and the garden area.
The dilapidations totalled £1.8m, a sum determined by independent advisors, and it is understood that the King stepped in to pay the penalty from his own personal funds. Charles offered his brother the money on loan to ensure the Crown Estate, which generates revenue for the public purse, received the repair bill in a timely manner.
Though Andrew owed £1.8m, the figure was reduced by a £302,000 rebate because he surrendered the lease early. It is not known how the former Duke of York, who receives an annual six-figure stipend from his brother, will repay the King, with Palace sources indicating it was a private matter.
Prince Harry reveals strict ‘ten-day rule’ he has with Meghan
Prince Harry has opened up about a strict “ten-day” rule he has with his wife Meghan Markle and their children Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five. This week, The Duke of Sussex has appeared on the American educational platform MasterClass, in an episode entitled Redefining Grief: Building Resilience Through Loss.
In an honest and open conversation, Harry spoke about grief and growing up with the trauma of losing his mum. In the same conversation, he also spoke about adulthood and the ways in which he prioritises what is important to him.
Harry, 42, made it clear that his wife and children are key to his happiness. In a sweet admission, he said they give him “energy” and “joy” and that he finds a balance between family life and work.
This balance comes from one simple rule – not spending more than 10 days apart from his wife and children.

Harry and Meghan have a simple rule (Image: Jonathan Brady-Pool/Getty Images)
Expert points ‘extraordinary’ detail about Andrew’s shock court win
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s latest court victory has one “extraordinary” detail, according to a legal expert. The former Duke of York has been embroiled in a court battle with Thames Valley Police over the search warrants used to search his properties following his arrest in February. Mr Justice Hilliard said on Thursday that while the former Duke of York and Thames Valley Police had reached an “agreement” that the warrants were unlawful, police have since launched a bid to retain evidence gathered during the searches in February.
He said Andrew opposes the bid to retain the evidence, and that a hearing in the case will be held in private in 2027. It means that the former prince could remain in limbo for several more months before learning if he will be charged with an offence.
The warrants, issued by a judge at the Old Bailey on February 18, allowed police to raid Andrew’s residence on the Sandringham Estate and his former Windsor home, Royal Lodge, in February.
Zara Tindall reveals parenting choice she made after ‘critical’ upbringing
Zara Tindall has shared the parenting choice she made to make sure her children avoid the worst criticism she faced as a child.
Zara, the Queen’s eldest granddaughter, gave fans an insight into her parenting style on a recent episode of podcast, Talking Horse. The 45-year-old is one of Britain’s most skilled equestrians, having picked up a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics and gold at the 2006 world championships — the same year she claimed BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year award.
She began riding at a young age under the tutelage of her mother and father, Princess Anne and Mark Phillips, who both competed at the top level of the sport. Their training methods could be ‘tough’, she said.
“My father was quite critical,” Zara recalled. “Very rarely, you would get a ‘Yeah, that was good’ out of him. So it was always striving to try and get that comment.”

Zara Tindall sat down for a rare interview (Image: Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images)
Princess Kate holds secret meeting with billionaire in London
Princess Catherine was seen out in Belfast today with her husband, Prince William, making her first public appearance this week. However, while royal fans haven’t seen her out and about before today, that does not mean she hasn’t been busy at work.
According to the Court Circular, the Princess of Wales was busy yesterday holding a private meeting. This was with Melinda French Gates, founder of Pivotal.
The meeting was held at Pivotal’s London offices. The court circular read: “The Princess of Wales, Joint Patron of The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales, this morning attended a meeting with Mrs Melinda French Gates (Founder of Pivotal) at the offices of Pivotal in London.”
It is not known exactly what the meeting was about, however Melinda is likely to have spoken to Catherine about her work with Pivotal. This is the organisation Bill Gates’ ex-wife founded.
Prince William and Princess Kate are ‘obsessed’ with BBC show boasting 8.7 IMDb rating
Prince William and Princess Kate harbour a television obsession that may surprise royal enthusiasts, with the pair reportedly completely captivated by a popular BBC programme.
The Prince and Princess of Wales have enjoyed numerous well-loved shows over the years, though a royal commentator has disclosed the extent of their devotion to their current favourite.
Given its plot twists, concealed identities and shocking double-crosses, it’s hardly surprising the royal duo have become utterly absorbed.
During an appearance on Palace Confidential on YouTube, Daily Mail royal editor Rebecca English disclosed that William and Kate are devoted followers of The Celebrity Traitors, the BBC‘s acclaimed reality competition, which boasts an IMDb rating of 8.7.
“Now, William and Catherine are massive Traitors fans. I can tell you that now. They love the programme. Absolutely glued to it,” Rebecca said, reports the Mirror.

Prince William and Princess Kate are big fans of the show (Image: Aaron Chown-WPA Pool/Getty Images)
Prince William’s emotional message on mental health – ‘Check in, listen, show kindness’
The Prince of Wales has urged people to “check in, listen and show kindness” as he speaks exclusively with the Daily Express to mark World Mental Health Day. William has spoken of the “extraordinary impact” of stopping to ask if someone is ok, adding that one conversation can make all the difference.
Mental health and suicide prevention have been a cornerstone of the future King’s public work for over a decade, as he focuses on destigmatising mental health, supporting men in crisis and encouraging open conversations.
“We do not always know what someone is carrying beneath the surface,” the prince told this newspaper. “Taking the time to check in, to listen, and to show kindness can make more of a difference than we often realise.
“Sometimes, a simple conversation is where hope begins. The moments that often matter most are the simplest ones: checking in on someone, listening without judgement, and reminding them that they are not alone. Small acts of kindness can have an extraordinary impact.”
Princess Kate’s brother makes heartbreaking announcement about loss of family member
Princess Catherine‘s brother has taken to Instagram today to announce a beloved member of his family has passed away. James Middleton, best known for being Catherine’s brother, is the owner of a number of dogs whom he loves and adores.
However, in a heartbreaking post on Friday, James revealed that his oldest dog, Zulu, has passed away. Zulu is the son of his late dog Ella, who inspired him to set up his business, James and Ella, after he credits her for saving his life.
Announcing the death of Zulu on Instagram, James shared that the dog was almost 16 years old and had been there for James, his wife, and his son over the years. He confirmed that he has buried the dog beside Ella.
Meghan Markle could make her ‘most authentic’ move yet – but she has to be careful
Meghan Markle could be about to make a very “authentic commercial move”, yet she has been warned to be careful. Just days ago, it was rumoured that The Duchess of Sussex could be eyeing up a new business venture in the UK.
This comes over a month after she relocated back to Britain with her husband, Prince Harry, and their two children, Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five. While unconfirmed by the duchess herself, it is believed she could be considering launching some kind of yoga business.
This is reportedly inspired by her long love of yoga, which she seems to have developed from her mum, Doria Ragland. While Meghan has yet to comment on the rumour, which was revealed by a source speaking to RadarOnline, a brand and culture expert has shared his thoughts on the potential move.
As a former friend of Meghan, brand and culture expert Nick Ede believes that a yoga business would be “authentic” for Prince Harry’s wife, as it is something she is passionate about. However, to make it work, he has advised that the duchess should be careful not to make it all about her.

Meghan Markle could be eyeing up a new business venture (Image: Jonathan Brady-Pool/Getty Images)
Prince Harry ‘paid up to 100,000 dollars’ for recent mental health talk
A source close to Prince Harry confirmed that he was paid for a talk he gave with a neuroscientist on grief and mental health amid reports he was handed up to £75,500 (£100,000 dollars) for the session. The Duke of Sussex revealed he experienced a two-week period of depression after arriving in Canada before the Megxit crisis, with an “adrenaline crash” after escaping a “stressful environment”, as he spoke with Dr Mary-Frances O’Connor.
It was on the MasterClass video-streaming learning platform, in a session called “Redefining Grief: Building Resilience Through Loss.” The Daily Mail reported that the duke may have received $100,000 plus a share of subscription revenues from the online platform.
The cost of an annual MasterClass membership ranges from £120 to £228. A source close to Harry confirmed he had been paid, but said the exact details were not discussed.
Princess Kate sparks frenzy during surprise visit to Northern Ireland with Prince William
Princess Catherine dazzled today as she made a surprise visit to Northern Ireland with her husband, Prince William. The Prince and Princess of Wales are spending the day in Belfast for engagements focused on the Homewards initiative.
The future king launched the project in 2023 with the aim of working to end homelessness. They are set to meet organisations and young people working together to create pathways to employment, stability, belonging and opportunity for those at risk of homelessness.
William and Catherine’s visit aims to highlight how an innovative employment pilot, first launched in Northern Ireland by Homewards, has supported young people into work and helped them build confidence and sustain their new roles.
Catherine wowed in a green tartan midi skirt, paired with a white blouse and a black midi coat. She finished the look with a pair of black heels.

Princess Catherine wowed today (Image: Mark Cuthbert/Getty Images)
Good afternoon
Good afternoon. Royal reporter Jasmine Carey here and I will be bringing you the latest royal news this afternoon.
You can contact me at jasmine.carey@reachplc.com.
Andrew bombshell as King Charles funded £1.8m Royal Lodge repair
King Charles privately funded the £1.8m repairs needed on Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s former home, Royal Lodge, it has been confirmed.
It was announced earlier on Friday that the former Duke of York’s lease on the Royal Lodge had been officially surrendered – with the Crown Estate receiving £1.5 million after £302,000 compensation he was entitled to was deducted from the £1.8 million in dilapidation costs.

The King privately funded the work (Image: Getty)
Meghan Markle skewered as latest outfit sparks savage comparisons
Meghan Markle was mocked by fans after her latest £19,000 appearance in London was compared to that of a beloved Star Wars character.
The Duchess of Sussex was pictured leaving Claridge’s Hotel in London on Wednesday, joined by Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai.

Meghan Markle was out and about in London this week (Image: Getty)
The Prince and Princess of Wales arrive in Belfast
Prince William and Princess Catherine have arrived in Belfast, Northern Ireland, to spend a day focused on homelessness.

The Prince and Princess of Wales are in Belfast (Image: Getty)
James Wessex in horror security scare after knife incident near university
James, Earl of Wessex’s university is looking for new security after a recent incident involving knife crime in the area, it has been reported.
The 18-year-old is studying Rural Land and Property Management at the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester. He is miles away from his family home in Bagshot Park.
The university is looking for a new Security and Welfare Officer to be on-site.

James Wessex is away studying at university (Image: Getty)
Officials give bombshell update on Andrew Mountbatten Windsor’s Royal Lodge
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has officially surrendered the keys to his former home, Royal Lodge, having paid £1.8 million to cover dilapidations.
The former Duke of York moved out of the property earlier this year after the King announced last October that his brother would surrender the lease and move to the private Sandringham Estate.
Now, officials have confirmed that the process has been completed.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor (Image: Getty)
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle urged to eat ‘humble pie’ after masterplan rollout
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been served “humble pie” in Britain but are very happy with how they’re settling in Prince Harry’s homeland, sources have claimed.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex relocated to Britain in a bombshell U-turn, six years after leaving the country.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have returned to Britain (Image: Getty)
Duke of Kent heartbreak as royal faces devastating loss as he celebrates birthday
The Duke of Kent is in mourning again, just a little over a year after his wife, the Duchess of Kent, died in 2025.
Prince Edward, who is celebrating his birthday today, will undoubtedly be navigating a difficult period as his Private Secretary, Nicholas Piers Turnbull, died last month at the age of 63.

The Duke of Kent is grieving a loss (Image: Getty)
Meghan Markle ‘struggling to recruit UK talent’ to work for her
Meghan Markle is struggling to recruit talent to work for her in the UK, a source claims.
The Duchess of Sussex is seeking people to join her team in Britain, including an executive assistant, but insiders have told the Naughty, But Nice Substack newsletter that getting the best candidates has been tricky after highly publicised reports of staff turnover. A source told the publication: “Meghan can offer a glamorous title, but the best people aren’t biting.”
Naughty But Nice writer Rob Shuter reported that the source claimed people ask why things would be different for them after noting the number of staffers who have left Meghan’s team.

A source claims Meghan Markle is struggling to recruit talent in the UK (Image: Getty)
Zara Tindall reveals parenting choice she made after ‘critical’ upbringing
Zara Tindall has shared the parenting choice she made to make sure her children avoid the worst criticism she faced as a child.
Zara, the Queen’s eldest granddaughter, gave fans an insight into her parenting style on a recent episode of podcast, Talking Horse.
The 45-year-old is one of Britain’s most skilled equestrians, having picked up a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics and gold at the 2006 world championships — the same year she claimed BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year award.

Zara Tindall gave a new interview (Image: Getty)
Meghan and Harry have a big problem – and trips to Cotswolds pubs only make it worse
By Chris Riches
COMMENT: “Many everyday things prompt us to ask, ‘How are they useful?’ Like that tiny front pocket on your pair of jeans, now Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are in danger of slipping into that ‘pointless’ category too.
“The Duke and Duchess of Sussex returned to the UK last month, not exactly with a fanfare, but certainly with a PR machine orchestrating their carefully managed Megxit U-turn.”

Harry and Meghan are back in the UK – but why? (Image: Getty)
Princess Kate’s brother teases huge news with funny new video
Princess Catherine’s brother has teased that huge news is on the way regarding his brand, James and Ella.
The Princess of Wales’ brother has appeared in a hilarious new Instagram video with two of his dogs.
In the video, James can be seen talking to someone behind the phone camera.

James Middleton has teased a new secret is coming (Image: Getty)
Prince Harry reveals strict ‘ten-day rule’ he has with Meghan Markle
Prince Harry has opened up about a strict “ten-day” rule he has with his wife Meghan Markle and their children Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five.
This week, the Duke of Sussex has appeared on the American educational platform MasterClass, in an episode entitled Redefining Grief: Building Resilience Through Loss.
In an honest and open conversation, Harry spoke about grief and growing up with the trauma of losing his mum. In the same conversation, he also spoke about adulthood and how he prioritises what is important to him.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have a simple rule they follow (Image: Getty)
Happy Friday
Good morning and happy Friday! I’m Sophia Papamavroudi and I’ll be bringing you all the latest royal updates into this afternoon.
Feel free to get in touch with me as I work at sophia.papamavroudi@reachplc.com
Meghan Markle’s ‘true motive’ behind ‘calculated’ move laid bare – ‘not sorry’
Commentator Carole Malone has said if Meghan Markle is going to apologise to the Royal Family it isn’t because she’s sorry. Carole added: “It’s because her and Harry have come back here and they are desperately trying to reintergrate into Britian, they desperately want to look better.”
A source exclusively revealed to the Express earlier this week that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are planning to apologise to the Royal Family over claims made against the Firm, including that dicussions were held among members of the Royal Family about the colour of Prince Archie’s skin before he was born.

Meghan Markle ‘isn’t sorry’ (Image: Getty)
Prince Harry reveals way he ‘unlocked’ memories of Diana after being ’emotionally numb’
Prince Harry spoken out about grief and growing up with the trauma of losing his mum, as well as a battle with depression later in life.
He also spoke about adulthood and his family life now on the American educational platform MasterClass.

Prince Harry has spoken out about losing his mum (Image: Getty)
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