Grant Harrold Advises Sussexes on Royal Reconciliation Plans

Grant Harrold, King Charles's former butler, has advised Meghan, Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry to move carefully as they rebuild ties with the Royal Family, after reports the couple are returning to California for Christmas and preparing public engagements in Nottingham.

Harrold, who worked for the Royal Family between 2004 and 2011, gave his comments after reports emerged about the Sussexes' plans while they navigate reconciliation efforts in the UK.

"Despite their recent move back to the UK, I think Meghan and Harry will want to go back to the States for Christmas this year. It’s where their friends and Meghan’s family are, so I believe they will want to spend the holidays there, and who can blame them really. They will want to have time with their close friends, as everyone does at Christmas. I’m sure they will do a few events here before they go, but I imagine the day itself will be back in sunny California." said Grant Harrold, King Charles's former butler.

According to GB News, Meghan, 45, and Harry, 42, are scheduled to visit Nottingham on Thursday for their first joint engagement since returning to the UK. The visit will be at the Community Recording Studio, a youth and community charity in St Ann's.

The charity began by providing music and recording facilities for young people and later expanded into creative programs, sports activities, mentoring and youth development, according to the report.

Harrold said the couple should continue rebuilding relationships gradually before considering a Royal Family Christmas gathering.

"I don’t think it would be a good idea for Harry and Meghan to attend a royal Christmas this year; I think it’s just too soon. While we’re told things are improving behind the scenes, there is still a long way to go, and I don’t believe they’re at the point of pulling crackers and sharing festive jokes quite yet. It makes sense for them to go home. It’s a shame, and I really hope they get there next year, but I think it’s a good idea to take things slowly for now." said Grant Harrold, King Charles's former butler.

The Nottingham engagement is expected to follow a format similar to the couple's public appearances before they stepped away from royal duties in 2020. The city was also the location of their first joint public appearance after their engagement announcement in 2017.

According to the source, a £1.1 million contribution from Harry to BBC Children in Need, revealed during his visit in September 2025, is funding part of the studio's redevelopment. The charity's work also includes support through Epic, which operated across seven schools by March this year and reached 45 pupils.

Harry's connection with the St Ann's community dates back to 2013, when he made a private visit to the area.