Royal enthusiasts hoping for a reconciliation between Prince Harry and Prince William may need to abandon their hopes, according to a leading expert.
Jennie Bond, the veteran former BBC Royal reporter, suggests that future King William has distanced himself from the controversy surrounding Harry and Meghan Markle’s exit from their roles as working royals, effectively severing ties with his once-close brother. Harry has made numerous explosive revelations in books, interviews, and TV shows since relocating to America with Meghan, causing damage to the Royal Family’s reputation.
Speaking to OK!, leading Royal expert Jennie said: “I think we have to give up hope that the rift between the brothers will be healed at any time in the near future, or indeed ever. William’s head and heart must be bursting with all that he has on his plate right now: his wife’s cancer treatment, his father’s illness, his children growing up fast, the pressure for him to take on more royal duties, the prospect of becoming King earlier than he might ever have wanted.
“Dealing with ‘the Harry problem’ is probably just one step too far for William. I believe he has moved on with his life and has, to all intents and purposes, disowned the brother to whom he was once so close.”
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Prince William’s wife, Kate Middleton, has bravely informed the public that she is undergoing cancer treatment. In a poignant moment last week, Prince William carried out his most extensive set of engagements since the Duchess of Cambridge’s diagnosis was made public, signalling optimism about her recovery.
Royal commentator Jennie noted that the 41 year old Prince of Wales seemed more relaxed and confident about Kate’s health, suggesting she is “feeling stronger every day”.
During his visit to Cornwall, William focused on tackling homelessness and took time to engage with the community at the Nansledan Estate in his role as head of the Duchy of Cornwall. His trip also included meeting healthcare workers on the Isles of Scilly and joining young lifeguards for an impromptu game of volleyball at Fistral Beach.
Jennie commented on the positive sign of William feeling able to spend a few nights away from Kate and their children, speculating that “Catherine’s parents will be staying with her,” but nonetheless seeing it as a positive step forward.
William himself provided an encouraging update on Kate’s condition, saying: “She’s doing well, thanks,” and light-heartedly added: “The children are very jealous that I am here… Maybe we might come later in the year.”
Prince William’s visit to Cornwall happened to coincide with Prince Harry’s return to the UK for the 10th anniversary service of the Invictus Games, followed by a trip to Nigeria with Meghan Markle. Despite rumours, Harry did not meet with any members of the Royal Family during his UK stay, including a potential rendezvous with his father, King Charles.
Even though Harry and Meghan stepped down from their senior Royal duties in 2020, their Nigerian visit was dubbed a ‘mini Royal tour’, a term that Jennie suggests might not have “pleased” King Charles or Prince William.
The expert further commented: “The King and Prince William are firmly of the belief that you are either in or out of the working Royals. This seems to be a rather strange halfway house. I think both the King and the Prince, and indeed the Government, will want it to be made clear that Harry is not representing either the Royal Family or Britain on this trip.”
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