In a wide-ranging interview published in early 2026, Meghan Markle made one of her most direct and eye-catching statements yet about her and Prince Harry’s relationship with the British monarchy. Speaking to a U.S.-based lifestyle and culture magazine, the Duchess of Sussex asserted that “around 60% of the British public” would like to see her and Harry return to some form of active role within the royal family.
The claim, delivered calmly but firmly during a 45-minute conversation that also touched on parenting, media scrutiny, her Archewell Foundation work, and her upcoming Netflix projects, immediately ignited widespread discussion across British and international media. Meghan framed the figure as something she had heard repeatedly from people she meets, particularly during public engagements and private conversations in the United States and abroad. She did not cite a specific poll, survey, or study, describing it instead as a recurring sentiment she encounters in everyday interactions.
“We get stopped by people all the time who say they miss us being part of it,” she said. “They say they wish we were still there doing the work we were doing. I think if you actually asked the public — not just the loudest voices online — you’d find a lot of support for us coming back in some capacity.” When pressed on the exact 60% figure, Meghan replied: “That’s the number that keeps coming up. It’s not scientific, but it’s consistent. People are tired of the drama and just want the family to be whole again.”
The statement landed at a delicate moment for the royal family. King Charles III continues cancer treatment, Queen Camilla has taken on a more visible public role, and the Prince and Princess of Wales are managing their own health challenges and heavy workloads. Prince Harry and Meghan have maintained a high-profile life in California since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, releasing a Netflix docuseries, Harry’s memoir Spare, and various media projects while continuing their charitable work through Archewell.
British media reaction was swift and largely skeptical. Several major newspapers and broadcasters immediately pointed out that no recent, reputable public opinion poll has shown anything close to 60% support for Harry and Meghan returning to royal roles. Multiple independent surveys conducted between 2023 and 2025 consistently placed public support for their reintegration in the low to mid-teens — often between 12% and 22% — with a clear majority either indifferent or actively opposed. The most commonly cited reason for opposition remains the couple’s public criticisms of the royal family, particularly the allegations made in the Netflix series and Spare.
Royal commentators were quick to note that Meghan’s figure may reflect a self-selecting sample — people who approach her in the United States or at events organised by supporters — rather than a representative cross-section of UK public opinion. Others suggested the 60% could refer to a different question entirely, such as whether people would like to see Harry and Meghan at family events (e.g. Christmas at Sandringham) rather than resuming official royal duties.
Harry has not publicly commented on his wife’s statement, but sources close to the couple say he remains supportive of her speaking openly about their experiences and hopes for reconciliation. The Sussexes have repeatedly said they would be open to mending relations with the royal family, particularly for the sake of their children Archie and Lilibet, but have also made clear they have no intention of returning to full-time royal roles or living in the UK under the current conditions.
The interview itself covered a broad range of topics. Meghan spoke candidly about the challenges of raising two young children in the public eye, her efforts to protect their privacy, and the ongoing impact of media scrutiny. She described Archewell’s work in mental health, education, and community support as her primary focus, and hinted at new creative projects in development for Netflix. When asked about the future of her relationship with the royal family, she said: “We’ve always been open to healing. But healing requires honesty, accountability, and mutual respect. That’s the only way forward.”
The 60% claim quickly became the headline-grabbing element, dominating UK front pages and trending heavily on social media. Supporters praised Meghan for speaking truthfully about what she believes is widespread quiet support, while critics accused her of wishful thinking or deliberately inflating numbers to pressure the palace. Some commentators suggested the remark could complicate behind-the-scenes efforts to improve relations, particularly as the King’s health remains a concern and the Wales family continues to shoulder the majority of public-facing duties.
Royal watchers noted that any return — even in a limited, non-working capacity — would require significant negotiation. Issues of security funding, media relations, public funding, and the couple’s independent commercial activities would all need addressing. Previous attempts at reconciliation, including private meetings and correspondence, have reportedly stalled over trust and differing expectations.
For now, the statement stands as one of Meghan’s most direct public assertions about the state of public opinion toward her and Harry. Whether the 60% figure holds up under scrutiny or proves to be anecdotal, it has once again thrust the Sussexes’ complex relationship with the royal family — and with the British public — back into the headlines.
As the couple continue building their life in California while maintaining ties to charitable causes, the question lingers: is there genuine widespread desire for their return, or is the 60% figure more reflective of hope than hard data? Only time — and perhaps future polls — will tell.
