21 October 2023 , 17:55
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Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly planning to spend Christmas in America, with one expert suggesting it shows just how strained their relationship with the Royal Family is.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have made a life for themselves in Montecito, California, after stepping back from The Firm three years ago. It's now been suggested they will spend the festive period at their home, after the couple were a no-show at Balmoral this summer.
Relationship expert Louella Alderson has said while King Charles might be "disappointed", it's the best decision for Meghan and Harry. Speaking exclusively to The Mirror, she said: "It's clear that there is tension between Meghan Markle and Prince Harry and the rest of the Royal Family.
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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are unlikely to spend Christmas in the UK (Getty Images Europe)"Their decision not to spend Christmas together is a reflection of this strained relationship. This is likely the best decision for all of them, as it will allow them to spend the holidays with their respective families without the added pressure of trying to mend their relationship."
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Louella, a co-founder of the So Syncd dating app, said Christmas is a time when people come together, but warned if Meghan and Harry spent it with the Royal Family, "there could be added stress and potential conflicts that could further damage their relationship." She added: "By choosing to spend the holiday apart, they are giving themselves the opportunity to have a peaceful and drama-free celebration with their loved ones."
Meghan and Harry have a strained relationship with the Royals. The couple made a number of bombshell accusations about The Firm in their Netflix docuseries and Harry hit out at his family in his debut memoir Spare.
Louella said: "King Charles is likely feeling disappointed and hurt by his son's decision to distance himself and release private information about the Royal Family. At the same time, Harry is angry about the way Meghan has been treated by the media and the lack of support from his family. Until they are ready to have an open and honest conversation about their feelings and work towards reconciliation, it might be best for them to keep a distance from each other."
They have a tense relationship with the Royal Family (UK Press via Getty Images)She also said it would be best for Harry and Meghan to spend Christmas away from the Royal Family as "rushing into a reunion can have the opposite effect to what was intended – it can damage a relationship even further." If Meghan and Harry do spend the holidays in America, it means their two children - Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet - could be apart from their extended family.
However, Louella said it might be helpful for the youngsters. "By choosing to spend Christmas away from the added stress, Meghan and Harry are likely creating a healthier, more positive environment for their children. They can focus on creating special holiday memories as a family without external distractions or conflicts," she explained.
While they may not spend time with the Royals, Louella suggested Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland, will "play a big role in creating a special Christmas" for her grandchildren. The relationship expert added: "While it may be sad for Archie and Lilibet to miss out on seeing their extended family during the holidays, their parents have likely made this decision with their best interests at heart. As long as they are surrounded by love and positivity, they are set up to have a happy holiday season."