The Duke of Sussex was in Canada, energetically promoting his Invictus Games. However, with his father recently revealing his cancer diagnosis, it was nearly impossible for the Duke to avoid commenting on the situation. There have been numerous signs indicating what might happen next. Prince Harry has expressed deep concern for the King's health to his brother and has indicated his intention to return to London to support his father and family. He feels they need him and that they miss his presence, ready to offer the strength he believes they require.
Despite Harry's desire to bring the family together in the face of illness, it has been revealed that his sister-in-law’s diagnosis did not prompt any attempts at reconciliation. Instead, the Sussexes’ communication with William was merely a message of sympathy, with no suggestions of mending fences or Harry returning to the UK soon.
British royal reporters have noted that the Sussexes’ ongoing public activities seem chaotic, and Buckingham Palace would prefer Harry and Meghan retreat from the limelight. However, as private citizens, they cannot be restricted from traveling or making public appearances. Some analysts view Harry’s offer to support William as a brotherly gesture, while others feel that given William's tumultuous year, a sibling reunion might not be desirable.
If you think the brothers' relationship is strained now, brace yourself. According to a well-placed source, Prince William will not attend the Earthshot Innovation Summit at the Plaza Hotel in Manhattan on September 24th. This decision remains unchanged despite his brother being in the city at the same time. A friend of William’s mentioned that the Prince of Wales is focused on his wife, children, and father, with his brother not being a current topic of discussion.
Regarding Harry’s role at William’s coronation, he needn’t worry about being unceremoniously relegated to the third row behind his aunt Princess Anne’s elaborate hat, as he won’t be receiving an invitation at all. The lingering ill feelings mean William would rather not have his brother present. Despite some efforts to respond, the communication has been more diplomatic than warm, reflecting the ongoing tension between them.
Amidst this royal health crisis, experts speculate how things might be different if their mother, Princess Diana, were still alive. Many believe Diana would have supported Harry’s decisions and sought ways to bridge the gap between the brothers. She would likely have been proud of Harry’s efforts to highlight mental health issues and his Invictus Games successes, supporting his quest for freedom and autonomy.
As royal experts and commentators continue to debate the future of the British royal family, the question remains: is a smaller, streamlined monarchy the right model moving forward?
