The Queen Sees Prince Harry as a "Prodigal Son" Who Is Always Welcome Back as a Working Royal, Expert Says
"She's very loathed to criticize anything he's doing."

- This year, royal fans were shocked by news that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were stepping back from their roles as senior working members of the royal family.
- According to royal expert Ingrid Seward, Queen Elizabeth II sees Harry as a "prodigal son" and she will "welcome him home with open arms" if he changes his mind about his royal exit.
- Seward also says that it's unlikely the Queen will ever criticize Harry and Meghan's decision, even privately with other members of the royal family.
Prince Harry stepped back from his role as a working, senior royal this year—but that decision doesn't have to be permanent.
In an interview with Sky News this week, Majesty magazine Editor-in-Chief Ingrid Seward weighed in on Harry's royal exit—and how the Queen really feels about it behind-the-scenes.
"I think she's looking at Harry like the prodigal son, that he will come home and she will welcome him home with open arms," Seward explained, according to The Sun. "I think she's very loathed to criticize anything he's doing."
And, according to Seward, that "no criticism" policy would extend to other members of the royal family, as well as the press and the public.
"Privately, she might feel very sad about it but she will never ever comment on it, even probably to her family," Seward said. "She would keep her feelings very much to herself."
For now at least, Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, are reportedly very happy with their decision to step back from royal life.
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Related Stories
Kayleigh Roberts is a freelance writer and editor with over 10 years of professional experience covering entertainment of all genres, from new movie and TV releases to nostalgia, and celebrity news. Her byline has appeared in Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, The Atlantic, Allure, Entertainment Weekly, MTV, Bustle, Refinery29, Girls’ Life Magazine, Just Jared, and Tiger Beat, among other publications. She's a graduate of the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University.
-
Havana Rose Liu Graduates 'All Nighter' With Flying Colors
The star of 'Bottoms' and fashion darling pivoted to Off-Broadway. It changed her life.
By Sadie Bell
-
Duchess Sophie Borrows Daughter Lady Louise's Hat as She Cries During Emotional Ceremony
The Duchess of Edinburgh also paid tribute to Prince Philip with her outfit.
By Kristin Contino
-
Benny Blanco Gave Selena Her Dream Prom, But My Eyes Were on Her Hair
Because even a mall photoshoot can't compete with a perfectly styled lob.
By Ariel Baker
-
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Make Poignant NYC Appearance to Highlight "Heartbreak" No Parent Should Face
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex unveiled a powerful memorial to children lost too soon.
By Kristin Contino
-
Prince Harry Gave Nephew Prince Louis an Extremely Rare Five-Figure Gift for His Christening
Uncle Harry for the gifting win.
By Kristin Contino
-
The "Nerve-Racking" Meeting King Charles's Cousin Had With Princess Diana
"I could have been a complete idiot."
By Amy Mackelden
-
Prince Harry Requested "Certain Protection" After Receiving a Shocking Threat Against His Life
Britain's Home Office released new details about a terrorist threat that targeted the Duke of Sussex.
By Kristin Contino
-
Royal Sources Give Update on "Distant" Relationship With Prince Harry and King Charles
Insiders close to the Duke of Sussex have revealed whether there is a chance at reconciliation in the near future.
By Kristin Contino
-
The Alleged "Olive Branch" Prince Harry Offered to Kate Middleton and Prince William During U.K. Visit
The Duke of Sussex's decision was reportedly an effort "to make peace."
By Amy Mackelden
-
The Special Gift Princess Lilibet Received From "Papa" Prince Harry in Meghan Markle's Latest Instagram Post
"Made with love."
By Amy Mackelden
-
Royal Expert Shares Why King Charles Had to Be "Very Careful" and "Couldn't" Meet Prince Harry During U.K. Visit
"It could actually bring down a court case."
By Amy Mackelden