Harry and Meghan's UK Comeback Faces Setback Amid Differing Ambitions

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made their first public engagement in Nottingham since returning to the UK, accompanied by former Kensington Palace aide Beth Herlihy.

Herlihy, a co-founder of PR boutique Herlihy Loughran, previously worked for the Royal Family and was laid off by Kensington Palace. She discreetly followed the couple during their walkabout on Thursday, helping to carry flowers and balloons. Before her PR career, Herlihy was a soap actress, playing Honey in two episodes of Channel 4's Hollyoaks Later in 2011, a role that included playing a stripper.

A report from Radar Online, citing an unnamed source, suggests the couple is starting to lead different lives with individual ambitions. Prince Harry reportedly continues to focus on charitable efforts, such as support for military veterans and public service, including the Invictus Games. Meghan is said to be focusing on her business ventures and entertainment opportunities, including her lifestyle brand, As Ever, and other media projects.

Neither Harry nor Meghan has publicly commented on this speculation. During their Nottingham visit on October 15, they visited a youth recording studio funded through Harry’s charitable support and appeared at Himmah, an organization tackling food poverty. Meghan also met contributors to a charity cookbook linked to fundraising for Grenfell Tower fire victims. A source described as a friend told the London Sunday Times that Harry and Meghan dislike the phrase working members of the royal family, asserting they are not working for the institution but are members of the royal family who work. This position rejects King Charles’ attempt to clarify their position.