Once known for their close bond, Prince Harry and Prince William’s relationship has drastically changed over the years. Reports suggest that the brothers have not spoken since Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral, and the prospects of reconciliation appear bleak.
The tensions between the two intensified after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle decided to step away from royal duties. Despite this, the couple has continued to make international appearances, such as their visits to Colombia and Nigeria this year, where they were received with the respect typically accorded to royals. This has reportedly angered Prince William and their father, King Charles III.
Future Coronation and Exclusion Concerns
As the next in line to the throne, Prince William is already the focus of plans for a future coronation. However, the current rift between the brothers raises questions about whether Harry will be invited to this significant event. Speculation suggests that William may choose to exclude Harry from his coronation, reflecting the deep-seated tensions that have developed between them.
A Turning Point: The Release of “Spare”
The release of Prince Harry’s memoir, Spare, in January last year marked a significant turning point in the brothers’ relationship. In the book, Harry recounts a physical altercation with William in 2019 at his London home. According to Harry, the confrontation escalated after William labeled Meghan Markle as “abrasive,” “rude,” and “difficult.” The encounter turned physical, with William reportedly grabbing Harry by the collar, ripping his necklace, and knocking him to the floor.
Harry’s account of the incident highlights the depth of the animosity between them, with William allegedly urging Harry to fight back, reminiscent of their childhood disagreements. While William later apologized, the damage to their relationship was significant, leaving Harry with visible injuries and lasting emotional scars.
King Charles’ Attempt at Reconciliation
King Charles was not present during the reported altercation between his sons, but he attempted to mediate a reconciliation after Prince Philip’s funeral in 2021. During a meeting at Frogmore Cottage, Harry, William, and Charles tried to address the issues that had driven Harry and Meghan to leave royal life. However, the meeting quickly became heated, with both brothers becoming increasingly agitated. Charles, witnessing their anger, pleaded with them, saying, “Please, boys, don’t make my final years a misery.”
Unfortunately, this attempt at reconciliation was unsuccessful, and the rift between Harry and William only deepened. Harry’s revelations in Spare, including the exposure of private text messages between Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle, further fueled the animosity.
The Name Dispute and Further Tensions
Even before Harry and Meghan left royal life, tensions had begun to simmer. A friend of the Prince and Princess of Wales revealed that Harry and Meghan deliberately referred to William’s wife as “Kate” instead of “Catherine,” despite her preference for the latter. This seemingly minor issue became a significant point of contention, especially when William’s wife was battling cancer.
The friend described the continued use of “Kate” as “bloody rude,” noting that it was a deliberate irritation during a difficult time for William. This small but significant act exemplified the deep-seated tensions and the growing distance between the two couples.
The Uncertain Future of the Brothers’ Relationship
As King Charles’ reign continues, plans for Prince William’s future coronation are already underway. However, the ongoing feud between William and Harry casts a shadow over the event. While some believe William might exclude Harry from his coronation, others, like royal expert Christopher Andersen, are convinced that Harry will be present, despite the strained relationship.
Tragically, it seems that the next time the brothers may meet could be at their father’s funeral. A friend of William’s suggested that the current estrangement might only be broken by such a somber event, highlighting the deep wounds that have yet to heal.
Betrayal and Hurt
The sense of betrayal and hurt that William feels is profound. According to those close to him, William is deeply pained by Harry’s actions, particularly the publication of Spare, which many see as a betrayal of the family’s trust. The once close relationship between the brothers, forged through shared childhood trauma and a deep understanding of each other, now seems irrevocably damaged.
William’s emotional burden is compounded by the simultaneous battles with cancer faced by his wife and father. Despite these challenges, William continues to fulfill his royal duties, but the absence of his brother by his side is a source of deep personal sorrow.
