Doria Ragland will reportedly remain in California rather than join Meghan Markle and Prince Harry when they relocate to the UK. The reason centres on the life she has established near Los Angeles.
The update adds another detail to Harry and Meghan’s reported move back to the UK. The couple is expected to make the journey with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet within days, according to reports.
TMZ claimed Doria “has a life she’s not ready to leave behind” in the US. The outlet reported that she has a home near Los Angeles and will therefore not accompany the Sussexes during their move.
However, her decision does not appear to signal any distance from Meghan, Harry or their children. The report added that Doria “will see the family… though it’s unclear where”.
Why Doria Ragland is staying near Los Angeles despite Meghan Markle’s UK move
Doria has remained an important presence in the Sussexes’ lives during their years in California. Harry and Meghan established their base there after stepping back from their roles as senior working royals in 2020.
The Express report described Harry as having a close relationship with his mother-in-law. It also said Archie and Lilibet share a strong bond with their maternal grandmother.
Doria previously travelled to the UK around the time of Archie’s birth in 2019. She also supported the family after they welcomed Lilibet in June 2021.
Her decision to stay near Los Angeles means the wider family will once again live thousands of miles apart. Even so, the TMZ report indicates that she intends to continue seeing the Sussexes after their move.
Archie and Lilibet set for schools in the UK
The Sussexes’ relocation will bring a particularly significant change for Archie and Lilibet. The children are reportedly due to start school in the UK as part of the family’s return.
Harry, Meghan and Archie moved to California after the couple left their senior royal positions. Lilibet arrived the following year, meaning the UK move will mark a new chapter for the family of four.
The report says the return will happen soon. It also claims King Charles only learnt about the plans three days before they became public.
King Charles reportedly welcomes Sussex family return
King Charles is said to support the chance to spend more time with Harry, Meghan and his grandchildren. The family’s arrival could allow for more meetings in both a private and personal capacity, according to the Express.
Doria may not form part of the move, but the reported reason appears straightforward. Her home and existing life remain in the Los Angeles area, while Meghan, Harry, Archie and Lilibet prepare for their next chapter in Britain.
ED! has contacted the Sussexes’ representatives for comment.
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