According to royal author Russell Myers, who wrote William & Catherine, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s decision to step back from royal duties caused deep emotional strain behind palace doors. Myers explained that both Prince William and Princess Catherine were especially hurt by how abruptly Harry and Meghan chose to leave.
Speaking about the situation, Myers suggested that the breakdown in Harry’s relationship with his brother may have been unavoidable once the Sussexes decided to forge their own path. He noted that Harry and Meghan were determined to leave immediately and believed the royal institution might try to prevent them if they delayed.
However, the speed and manner of their exit reportedly crossed a line for those closest to the family. Myers said sources connected to the royals told him that William and Catherine felt blindsided and deeply wounded by how events unfolded.
Despite the growing tension, Catherine reportedly never wanted the bond between the brothers to collapse. Myers described her as someone who often acted as a peacemaker between William and Harry, encouraging them to think about the long-term future of their relationship whenever disagreements arose.
Even in the final days before Harry and Meghan stepped away from royal life, Catherine was said to feel a great sense of sadness. Other members of the royal family also encouraged Harry to reconsider, hoping a solution could be found that would work for everyone.
While hopes for reconciliation may still remain, Myers suggested that repairing the rift will take time. The emotional damage caused by the Sussexes’ exit was significant, and for Catherine, the loss of the once-close relationship between the brothers was particularly heartbreaking.
