New documentary reveals Prince Harry could regain public favour—if he mends family ties and steps into duty

A Channel 5 documentary, Harry: Can He Ever Be Forgiven?, aired tonight with a tantalising proposition: Britain might still be willing to welcome Prince Harry back into the royal fold. But commentators warn—redemption comes with conditions.

Mirror Associate Editor Kevin Maguire laid it out plainly. Speaking to producers, he claimed Harry’s path back to public affection requires four key steps: reconciling with Prince William, making peace with King Charles, resuming royal public duties, and regaining his lost popularity.

“It would be a great tale of redemption,” said Maguire. “If Harry came back and made amends with his father and brother, stepped up in public life again, the people would celebrate it. It’s not impossible.”

Once seen as the cheeky, beloved royal, Harry’s favour with the public has sharply declined following his and Meghan Markle’s highly publicised exit from royal duties, their explosive media interviews, and ongoing feuds with the press and family alike.

Broadcaster Emily Andrews echoed Maguire’s view: “I’d like to see Harry back. I think it would be good for him—and for the country. If he returned and truly dedicated himself to public service, we’d remember the Harry we liked so much.”

But can that happen while his relationship with the press remains fractured?

Ann Widdecombe, former politician and columnist, believes respect—not reparations—will mend that rift. “The press needs to see him doing something meaningful. If Harry found a direction that earned admiration, reconciliation could follow,” she said.

The documentary also featured insights from American-born Royal commentator and Countess of Sandwich, Julie Montagu, who insisted healing must begin with Harry himself. “The public is ready to forgive,” she said. “But he needs to stop publicly criticising his family. That’s the first step—no more interviews, no more headlines at their expense.”

Harry’s emotional appearance during a recent BBC interview, where he appeared visibly “distressed” and “broken,” has stirred fresh debate about his current standing. Ha s public sympathy returned, or are people simply weary of the drama?

For now, the tide could turn—but only if Harry is ready to meet the nation halfway.