One Key Senior Royal May Hold the Key to Ending William and Harry’s Rift — and It’s Not Kate
Although the senior royal has concerns about the Sussexes' remarks, she is likely to prioritize King Charles's interests.
There are growing calls within the royal fold for Prince William and Prince Harry to reconcile, especially since the Duke has now moved back to the UK with his family for an extended period. A senior royal had already warned the Sussexes about the consequences when they decided to step down from royal duties in 2020. Fast forward six years, and her prediction about trying to 'reinvent the traditional institution' has come true. The question remains: will the brothers now listen to the no-nonsense member of the royal family and bury the hatchet for the sake of the monarchy?
It is understood that both William and Harry have tremendous respect for their aunt Princess Anne, and they would certainly take heed of her advice. According to HELLO! royal author Katie Nicholl, in her book The New Royals: Queen Elizabeth's Legacy and the Future of the Crown, discussed the Duke's relationship with Princess Anne, noting that it has faced challenges. Nicholl further revealed that during an interview in 2020, Princess Royal conveyed a cautionary sentiment about younger royals innovating, suggesting they shouldn't completely overhaul established traditions.
"The new younger royals are doing things differently, but they shouldn't try and reinvent the wheel," Anne had warned. "I think she will be one who has sort of sat back, predicted all of this, not been surprised that they're coming back somewhat with their tails between their legs because things haven't worked in America," the author wrote. She also emphasized that Princess Anne might forgive the Sussexes and set the right example for the rest of the royals.
Women & Home Magazine reported that an insider revealed that the Princess Royal finds it shocking for two adult men to be arguing and sulking instead of cherishing moments with their ailing father and respecting him. Princess Anne has been very supportive of King Charles, who is undergoing cancer treatment while remaining active in his duties.
Charles has been more open to spending time with Harry and his family, welcoming their return to the UK and the possibility of reconciliation, in contrast to William's stance. In his memoir, Spare, Prince Harry recounted his father's plea following Prince Philip's funeral in 2021 to avoid causing him distress in his final years. Meanwhile, allegations also suggest that their aunt Anne has been influencing William to address the negative impact on their father's legacy.
Anne also recognizes the impact of the tensions between William and Harry on the monarchy's reputation. Although she has concerns about the Sussexes' remarks, she is likely to prioritize King Charles's interests and encourage a positive step towards reconciliation. Royal author Robert Jobson highlighted her commitment to supporting her brother and fostering peace between her nephews, which would also bring comfort to King Charles.
"I think there is an acceptance amongst the royals that while this has been unexpected, they are going to have to do their best to appear to be making Harry and Meghan and the children feel welcome because at the heart of the royal family are those sort of Christian values of compassion and forgiveness," author Nicholl added.
