US media have reacted with a mixture of relief and mockery to reports that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are leaving America and returning to the UK, with one outlet reportedly declaring "our long national nightmare is over". The couple, who relocated to California after stepping back from royal duties in 2020, are said to be considering a move to the Cotswolds, an area popular with celebrities, and have reportedly already made a "secret reconnaissance" visit there.

The prospective return has reignited debate in Britain, including a row over security after the Home Office rejected taxpayer-funded protection for the couple, with Culture Secretary Andy Burnham calling the matter "private". Commentators have also suggested the move could prove awkward given reportedly strained relations with Prince William and mixed public opinion of the Sussexes in the UK, while some columnists claim the return has long been quietly encouraged by figures within the establishment.