Prince Harry compares life with the Royal Family to "Downton Abbey" but notes TV show had less drama.

Prince Harry humorously likened the complexities of growing up in the royal family to the popular British drama Downton Abbey. The Duke of Sussex, 41, made the remark while speaking at the British-American Business Councils 65th Annual Christmas Luncheon in Santa Monica, California, on December 5.

Some ask if life in the royal household was like Julian Fellowes Downton Abbey, Harry said. It is, but only one has endless drama, elaborate dinners, and marriages to Americansthe other is just a television show.

At the event, Harry, who mentioned it was his first Christmas party in a while, also reflected on his experience living in the United States. Being British isnt about where you stand physically, but what you stand for, he explained. He shared that celebrating the Fourth of July has been a novel experience, joking about the historic separation from Britain and referencing his distant royal ancestors.

In addition, the Duke lightheartedly addressed U.S. immigration policies while talking about the upcoming 2026 World Cup, which the U.S. will host alongside Canada and Mexico. He quipped that he looked forward to welcoming visitors from Britain, as long as they get through customs and past ICE.

Harrys appearance followed a surprise visit to The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on December 3, where he joked about auditioning for a holiday rom-com and teased Americans fascination with Christmas movies and royalty. When Colbert challenged his observation, Harry quipped, Really? I hear you elected a king, referencing a remark made by former President Donald Trump.

The luncheon occurred amid news of Meghan Markles father, Thomas Markle, undergoing leg surgery. Meghan, 44, who has been estranged from her father since her 2018 wedding to Harry, has reportedly reached out to him following his health issues.

Author: Benjamin Carter