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There has been speculation about whether Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will travel to the UK this Christmas to celebrate the holiday with Prince Harry's family. While Harry's Uncle Charles Spencer reportedly invited the Sussexes to spend Christmas at Althorp House, an expert says it seems unlikely they will accept due to ongoing security concerns in Britain.
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As reported in Express earlier this month, Harry and Meghan received an invitation to join Charles Spencer and the Spencer family for Christmas celebrations at Althorp, the stately home of the Spencer family and the place where Harry's mother Princess Diana is buried. However, former BBC Royal correspondent Jenny Bond believes it is improbable that Harry and Meghan will make the trip with their children Archie and Lilibet.
The Sussexes are currently embroiled in a legal battle with the UK government over the withdrawal of their taxpayer-funded police protection. Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Harry and Meghan have paid privately for security when visiting Britain. However, Harry wants to be able to pay for police protection with his own money if the government refuses to provide it.
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In light of this ongoing dispute, Bond says a return to the UK appears doubtful for Harry and Meghan. Accepting the Spencer family's invitation could also undermine Harry's statements about safety and security concerns in his home country. As Bond noted, "It would be strange for the Sussexes to travel back especially while Harry's legal appeal is still pending." She added that the security situation in highly unlikely to change before Christmas so their attendance would be "very odd" and suggest Harry may abandon his legal case.
While Harry has visited Britain a handful of times recently, including for the Invictus Games and his uncle's memorial, Meghan has not made any significant returns since stepping back. Her last visit was in the UK in 2022 for Queen Elizabeth's state funeral.
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Bond's analysis indicates that despite the Spencer family's kind offer, it seems security issues may prevent the Sussexes from joining them for Christmas even if they want to. Unless Harry's case is resolved, a celebratory family reunion in Britain remains uncertain. This would mark the second Christmas in a row that Harry and Meghan spend apart from the royal family.
Meanwhile, recent reports about Meghan's leadership style have sparked fresh discussions, both positive and negative. Earlier this month, The Hollywood Reporter cited sources calling Meghan "Duchess Difficult" and alleging her managerial approach reduced some to tears. Others depicted her behavior as "dictatorial" and decision-making as "erratic".
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However, following these claims, many of Meghan's former and current staff members have come forward defending her character and refuting the accusations. One ex-employee reminisced about the Duchess thoughtfully sending them a luxury pet accessory after adopting a dog. At Archwell, Meghan and Harry reportedly care for their staff's well-being, gifting new parents with carefully selected baby items.
A current Archwell insider emphasized Meghan's ability to make staff feel seen and cared for, recalling how she provided supplies after mentioning a skin issue. Staff have also praised leaving meetings at Harry and Meghan's home with gift baskets of fresh food and flowers, indicating the couple's hospitality.
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Mandana Dayani, former Chief Operating Officer at Archwell, strongly defended Harry and Meghan as "kind, decent, caring people" who quietly support many important causes. She lamented much of their generosity goes unnoticed due to "relentless negative media narratives." Dayani recently shared how Meghan remained supportive of her career ventures during a conversation.
While The Hollywood Reporter stands by its reporting, it's clear Meghan has loyal teammates countering the allegations. The differing portrayals highlight the complex nature of public figures' leadership and the scrutiny they face, as perceptions often vary widely. The truth about Meghan's management approach likely lies in between the critiques, as is often the case. One thing that seems certain is her dedication to caring for staff, as evidenced by personal anecdotes despite attacks on her character.
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As debate around Meghan's leadership prowess continues, the upcoming Christmas season promises to bring additional speculation about the Sussexes' holiday whereabouts. With ongoing tensions over security, a reunion with the royal family in Britain appears doubtful for now. But wherever they spend Christmas, Harry and Meghan will undoubtedly make the most of the celebration alongside their children.
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