In what was supposed to be a symbolic return to their royal roots, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle arrived at Buckingham Palace this week — but instead of open arms and warm embraces, they were met with cold stares and closed doors.

The couple, who dramatically stepped down as senior royals in 2020 and later launched a string of public attacks on the monarchy, made a surprise visit amid growing concerns over King Charles III’s declining health. Royal observers hoped this could be a step toward reconciliation.

But the reality was anything but hopeful.

“There were no greetings, no smiles, and certainly no red carpet,” a palace insider revealed. “For many inside these walls, they are still seen as traitors — and traitors don’t get warm welcomes.”

Even staff who once served the Duke and Duchess of Sussex reportedly avoided eye contact and remained distant. One aide said:
“They walked in as if nothing had happened. But everyone remembers. The Oprah interview. The Netflix series. The book. The damage was done.”

Royal Family Keeps Their Distance

Senior royals, including Prince William, Princess Anne, and Queen Camilla, kept their schedules fully booked — avoiding any private audience with Harry and Meghan. Prince William, in particular, is said to have refused to meet his brother, citing ongoing “emotional and institutional mistrust.”

“The wounds are still fresh,” a royal source shared. “Harry chose exile. He chose Hollywood over heritage. That’s not easily forgiven.”

A Tense Atmosphere Behind Palace Walls

While the couple reportedly requested a “quiet and respectful visit,” palace aides noted that the atmosphere turned icy the moment they arrived. Meghan, dressed in a subdued black ensemble, reportedly kept her head down and said very little. Harry, on the other hand, appeared frustrated by the lack of engagement.

“They thought returning would show maturity,” said one royal watcher. “But to many, it felt like too little, too late.”

Public Divided

News of their return has sparked a firestorm of opinions across social media. Some praised their effort to reconnect with the royal family in a time of crisis, while others called it “a shameless PR stunt”.

One viral post read:
“They betrayed the Crown, sold their story, and now come crawling back? No thanks.”

What Now?

With King Charles’s health still uncertain, it remains unclear how long the Sussexes will stay in the UK — or whether they’ll be allowed any meaningful role in the days to come.

For now, one thing is clear: forgiveness is not yet on the royal agenda. The doors to the palace may have opened, but the hearts inside remain firmly shut.