According to a royal expert, Prince William is not expected to shed any tears over Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's absence from Christmas at Sandringham. The feuding brothers have been at odds since the Sussexes stepped down as senior royals in 2020 and moved to the United States. Royal expert Jennie Bond claims that a reconciliation between the two is not likely to happen anytime soon. She believes that while William still loves Harry deep down, he cannot see a way out of the rift that has formed between them. Bond also suggests that William is thriving on his own, focusing on his own life and causes, and may even be happy not to share the world stage with Harry. She doubts that William thinks about his brother and sister-in-law for more than a fleeting moment, and possibly tries to block out those thoughts. Kensington Palace has been contacted for comment on the matter.

Last year, the Sussexes skipped Christmas festivities with the royal family, and it appears that they may not be welcomed back this year either. A source has revealed to The Telegraph that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are "highly unlikely" to turn down the opportunity to spend the festive season with King Charles. However, another source told the Daily Mail that senior members of the royal family, including Prince William, do not want Meghan and Harry there. The outlet refers to the Sussexes' suggestion that they could be invited back to the family as “bizarre” and questions their sudden change in strategy. The couple no longer has an official place to stay in the UK after being evicted from Frogmore Cottage. They will also have to cover additional security expenses when visiting Britain. The Post has reached out to Buckingham Palace for comment on the matter.

Despite the strained relationship between Prince Harry and the royal family, there seems to be a breakthrough in the royal rift. Last week, Harry called his father, King Charles, to wish him a happy birthday. This marked the first time the two camps had spoken in over six months. The King reportedly received a pre-recorded video of his grandchildren, Archie and Lilibet, singing “Happy Birthday” to him. This phone call may serve as a stepping stone for the reconciliation that has been long overdue between Harry and his family.