Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Have Reportedly Decided to Stay in California for Christmas This Year

Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and their son Archie will reportedly stay in California for Christmas this year because of the COVID pandemic.

Kayleigh Roberts
By Kayleigh Roberts
published
  • In spite of earlier reports suggesting they planned to return to the United Kingdom for Christmas, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will reportedly stay in California for the holidays this year.
  • A source close to the couple told Vanity Fair that they have "no plans" to go back to the U.K. this year and are "really enjoying their new life in California and their new home." 
  • The COVID-19 pandemic and related travel restrictions are only part of the reason the reason the Sussexes plan to stay in the United States for the holidays. Apparently, Harry's strained relationship with this brother, Prince William, is also a factor.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle won't be celebrating Christmas with the rest of the royal family this year, apparently.

A source close to the couple told Vanity Fair that the Sussexes don't have any plans to fly back to the United Kingdom for the holidays this year, in spite of earlier reports suggesting they hoped to do just that.

"At this stage they are really enjoying their new life in California and their new home," the source explained. "There are currently no plans for them to return to the U.K. for Christmas."

Part of the reason behind the Sussexes' holiday plans is, of course, the COVID-19 pandemic, which has made transatlantic travel complicated at best. But, according to the Vanity Fair source, the pandemic isn't the only reason Harry and Meghan decided not to make the trip back to the U.K. this holiday season. Apparently, Harry's ongoing rift with his brother, Prince William, also played a role.

"Let’s just say that while things are better between Harry and his brother, it’s not what it was, and I don’t think anyone is ready for a cozy family Christmas right now," the source added.

Meghan Markle's Most Iconic Fashion Moments

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commonwealth day service 2020
(Image credit: Karwai Tang)

March 9, 2020

Meghan and Prince Harry attend the Commonwealth Day Service at Westminster Abbey with all of the royal family. Meghan is wearing a custom Emilia Wickstead dress and carrying a Gabriela Hearst Demi bag; she's also wearing Birks earrings and Aquazzura heels.