You’ve seen the headlines. Probably every single day. The "Sussex Split" rumors, the "doom loop" business critiques, and the endless royal rift updates that never seem to actually move anywhere. But honestly, if you look at the latest on Meghan and Harry right now in early 2026, the reality is a lot messier and, frankly, more interesting than just another tabloid feud.
We’re currently seeing what people are calling the "2026 Reset." It's a pivot away from the high-drama tell-alls of 2022 and 2023 toward something that looks a bit more like a traditional Hollywood production company mixed with a very specific, tech-heavy philanthropic mission.
And yeah, they’re actually still together, despite what your "suggested" news feed might be screaming at you.
The Return to the UK: More Than Just an Olive Branch?
The biggest story right now is Harry’s imminent return to London. He’s expected in the High Court this week—specifically January 22, 2026—for his ongoing privacy battle against Associated Newspapers. But this trip feels different.
For the first time in years, the "security barrier" is crumbling. Reports suggest Harry is on the verge of winning back his UK police protection. If that happens, it’s a total game-changer. Why? Because it removes the one big, practical excuse the couple has used for keeping Archie and Lilibet away from British soil.
King Charles apparently knows this. He’s reportedly offered Highgrove House as a place for them to stay. It’s a huge "olive branch" move, but don't expect a group hug at the palace just yet. While Harry is in town, Prince William and Kate Middleton are scheduled to be hundreds of miles away in Scotland. The timing is... let’s just call it "convenient."
The Invictus Games Birmingham Countdown
The real test comes this summer. Birmingham is hosting the Invictus Games in 2027, and the "one year to go" events are happening this July. This is Harry’s "safe space." It’s where he’s most respected, and it’s where Meghan usually shines by his side.
If Meghan shows up in Birmingham this July, it’ll be her first time in the UK since the Queen’s funeral back in 2022. That’s a massive deal. Some experts think she’ll use it as a launchpad for her brand expansion, while others say she’s still "emotionally triggered" by the idea of stepping back onto British pavement.
The "As Ever" Rebrand and the Business "Doom Loop"
While Harry is focusing on fire stations and courtrooms, Meghan is deep in the "As Ever" era. You might remember the buzz around American Riviera Orchard—well, that’s basically been absorbed into As Ever.
She’s selling everything from sage honey to leather bookmarks.
There’s been a lot of talk about a "doom loop" lately. Critics like Lee Cohen argue that the Sussexes have a pattern: launch with hype, face commercial disappointment, rebrand, and repeat. It’s a harsh take. But the numbers tell a more nuanced story. A recent "glitch" on the As Ever website actually showed that Meghan had sold through about 90% of her initial inventory.
The strategy for 2026 is clearly about scaling. She’s moved production from her home kitchen to larger-scale facilities to handle the volume. It’s less "indie artisan" and more "lifestyle mogul" now.
What’s New on Netflix?
The $100 million deal might be over, but the relationship isn't. They’ve transitioned to a "first-look" deal, which is basically what the Obamas have. It’s lower pressure and allows them to pick and choose projects.
- The Wedding Date: They’re producing an adaptation of Jasmine Guillory’s rom-com. It’s a major pivot from their "woe-is-us" documentary style.
- Meet Me at the Lake: Still in development, another romance novel adaptation.
- With Love, Meghan: Her lifestyle series is heading into another season, despite some mixed reviews.
The Solo Era: Are They Drifting?
One thing that’s been fueling the split rumors is the sheer number of solo appearances. Harry was just spotted in Santa Barbara visiting fire stations with the Watch Duty app team. Meghan was nowhere to be found.
Does this mean the marriage is in trouble? Not necessarily.
They seem to be following the "separate lanes" strategy. In 2024 and 2025, they were criticized for being a "brand of two." Now, Harry is leaning into his military and first-responder roots, while Meghan handles the Hollywood and lifestyle side of the house.
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Honestly, they probably have to do this. If they only ever appear together, they’re just "the royals who left." If they build individual successes, they might actually survive the 24-hour news cycle.
What Actually Matters Moving Forward
The latest on Meghan and Harry isn't just about who’s talking to whom at Buckingham Palace. It’s about whether their business model can actually sustain their Montecito lifestyle without the constant fuel of royal drama.
2026 is the year we find out if As Ever is a real business or just a hobby, and if Harry can truly reconcile with a father who is clearly trying to keep the door cracked open, even if the rest of the family wants it bolted shut.
Actionable Insights for Royal Watchers
If you’re trying to keep up with the Sussexes, stop looking at the gossip blogs and watch these three things instead:
- The UK Court Ruling: If Harry wins his security case, expect the family to be in London for the Invictus countdown in July.
- The "As Ever" Cookbook: Watch for the release date this spring. It will be the true test of Meghan’s "lifestyle" conversion power.
- Netflix Ratings: Keep an eye on how The Wedding Date performs. If it flops, their Hollywood career is in real jeopardy.
They aren't going anywhere. But they are changing. Whether you love them or can't stand them, the Sussexes are currently attempting the hardest trick in show business: a successful second act.