Prince Harry Is ‘Still the Same Person’ Even After His Royal Exit: ‘It's Fun And Jokes’
Prince Harry's return to the UK was primarily to support causes he champions. While his official royal role might be behind him, his approach to the charitable projects and the people affected by them remains unchanged. Those who have had the opportunity to work closely with him say he is focused less on formalities and more on building a connection. On Tuesday, September 9, the Duke spent the day at the Community Recording Studio (CRS), a grassroots charity that provides young people with training in audio, video, and the creative industries. The space gives aspiring musicians and filmmakers not only equipment and skills, but also confidence and opportunity. It was here, far from the pomp of palace life, that Harry appeared entirely at ease.
Trevor Rose, CEO of CRS, told PEOPLE that Harry’s character hasn’t really been reshaped by the last few turbulent years of his life. “I mean, it's fun and jokes the whole way. The balance is about giving the kids the incentive, giving them the belief, [then] when we have a meeting, he wants to know how best he can do to support us," Rose says.
Since 2020, Harry has stepped down from official duties, relocated to California with Meghan Markle and his kids, and built a new life outside the monarchy. While much has been made of the distance that has been created between him and the royal family, seemingly, his core values remain unchanged, much of which, reportedly, he inherited from his mother.
Rose went on to add that he is not just there as a figurehead, but takes an interest in everything. “He cares about what it is that we are, what we're trying to do. He won't just walk in, take a picture, or sit down and do an event and go home. He wants to ask questions. He wants to feel the energy.”
Harry also sat in on some of the live performances by the studio’s young artists, many of whom had never performed in front of an audience before. The novelty of doing so for a prince added an extra layer of nervousness for the kids. “Some of the kids have performed probably once in their lifetimes, now [they can] say that they've [performed in front of] Prince Harry,” Rose chuckled. “For them, that's mind-changing.”
Jourdan Blair, CRS’s head of youth engagement and studio management, agreed and added that Harry knows the magic of appearing relatable despite their background. “You would think with his status, his head would be in the clouds. But no, he’s grounded, man. His feet are on the ground, and he's ready to put that work in." Blair added, “They loved him. They loved it. It's an instant connection. He loves the young people, man, you can see that he's got that drive. He’s got that drive to just help younger people, and especially through arts and crafts. That's why he's here.” The Duke also made a personal donation of $1.5 million to BBC Children in Need, earmarked for grassroots programs in Nottingham, particularly in neighborhoods grappling with violence.