The absence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from the 80th anniversary celebrations of Victory in Europe (VE) Day last Thursday reignited discussions about the ongoing rift within the British royal family. The event, marking Germany’s surrender in World War II, brought together nearly all senior royals, except the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Their estrangement, which began with their departure from royal duties in 2020, has taken new turns following Harry’s recent public statements.
Insiders close to the monarchy suggest that the primary barrier to reconciliation is not just past grievances but a more tangible issue: King Charles III’s will. British media reports indicate that Prince William, the heir to the throne, plays a significant role in shaping his father’s decisions.
- Recent statements: Harry expressed a desire for reconciliation in a BBC interview.
- 2020 split: The couple stepped back from royal roles, sparking public tensions.
- Will concerns: William fears the implications of any deal between Charles and Harry.
This situation exposes a divided monarchy, caught between personal loyalties and institutional priorities. Buckingham Palace, a historic seat of power, now grapples with a family dilemma that could shape the Crown’s future.
Will as a stumbling block
King Charles III’s will has emerged as a focal point in the tensions between the brothers. According to the Daily Beast, William is concerned that financial or institutional agreements made by his father with Harry could complicate his future reign. The Prince of Wales’ team reportedly advised Charles to avoid decisions that would force William to manage Harry’s return to the royal fold.
Sources tied to Kensington Palace, the official residence of William and Kate, emphasize that the heir views reconciliation as a potential threat to the monarchy’s stability. This stance is not new. In 2024, friends of the couple told The Telegraph that William frequently opposes Charles’ efforts to mend family ties.
- Inheritance worries: William aims to safeguard his future authority.
- Strained ties: The brothers’ animosity has persisted since 2020.
- Pressure on Charles: The king faces a delicate balancing act.
While the details of the will remain confidential, such documents are standard in royal successions to prevent institutional crises. Harry’s unique position—estranged yet still in the line of succession—adds complexity to the issue.

Harry’s BBC interview
In his recent BBC interview, Harry openly expressed a wish to rebuild ties with his family. He highlighted the importance of resolving conflicts for the sake of his children, Archie and Lilibet, who have limited contact with their grandparents and cousins. The remarks, though conciliatory, were met with skepticism by parts of the British press.
The Duke of Sussex explained that his 2020 exit from the monarchy was driven by privacy and security concerns, but he acknowledged that family tensions have worsened since. The globally broadcast interview rekindled public interest in the royal rift. Many see Harry’s words as an attempt to soften the negative narrative surrounding him since his move to the United States.
British media, however, framed the interview as subtle pressure on Charles and William. The Times suggested Harry is seeking to regain some influence within the monarchy, despite holding no official role. Buckingham Palace’s silence on the matter signals the issue’s sensitivity.
Roots of the rift
The discord between Harry and William predates their public fallout. Reports indicate the brothers clashed over Meghan’s role in the royal family. The duchess, viewed as a progressive figure, faced intense media scrutiny, which deepened Harry’s sense of alienation.
In 2019, Harry confirmed a “rift” with his brother during an ITV documentary. The situation escalated with the couple’s decision to step back from royal duties, a move dubbed “Megxit” that caught the monarchy off guard. The announcement triggered a media frenzy and laid bare internal palace divisions.
- 2019 documentary: Harry admitted to tensions with William.
- 2020 departure: The couple sought financial independence in the US.
- Oprah interview: In 2021, Harry and Meghan shared details of the rift.
- Memoir release: Harry’s 2023 book “Spare” detailed family conflicts.
Harry’s memoir, “Spare,” marked a low point in relations. The bestselling book included direct accusations against William and Charles, recounting personal disputes. The monarchy chose not to respond officially, but insiders said the book made immediate reconciliation nearly impossible.
Charles’ role in the conflict
King Charles III, despite his authority as monarch, faces constraints in uniting his sons. Sources told the Daily Beast that Charles longs to reintegrate Harry, particularly for the sake of his grandchildren. However, William’s influence as the future king heavily shapes palace decisions.
Charles, who ascended the throne in 2022 after Queen Elizabeth II’s death, is navigating institutional challenges, including modernizing the monarchy and cutting operational costs. The family crisis, while secondary, affects the Crown’s public image. The king strives to balance his role as a father with his duties as monarch.
Charles’ health has added another layer of complexity. After a cancer diagnosis in 2024, he scaled back public appearances, increasing the burden on William and Kate. Harry’s absence from events like VE Day underscores the monarchy’s streamlined operations.
British media’s response
The UK press closely tracks the royal crisis, with outlets divided in their coverage. Tabloids like The Sun and The Daily Mail often portray Harry as a destabilizing force. In contrast, The Guardian highlights the emotional complexity of Charles’ predicament.
- The Sun: Criticized Harry for “exposing” the family.
- The Daily Mail: Suggested William is “protecting” the monarchy.
- The Guardian: Noted the personal toll of the conflict.
Media coverage reflects public fascination with the royal drama. A 2025 YouGov poll found that 60% of Britons want Harry to reconcile with his family, but only 30% believe it will happen soon. Public sentiment, however, appears to have little sway over palace decisions.
Impact on royal events
Harry and Meghan’s absence from VE Day celebrations drew attention. The event, attended by Charles, Camilla, William, Kate, and other senior royals, featured speeches on unity and resilience. The lack of the Sussexes sparked comments on social media and in the press.
Other occasions, like Trooping the Colour and Christmas at Sandringham, have similarly highlighted Harry’s absence. Since 2020, the couple has attended few royal events, with the notable exception of Elizabeth II’s funeral in 2022, where Harry and William appeared together but showed no public warmth.
The monarchy has worked to project unity through its remaining members. Kate Middleton, in particular, has taken a prominent role in public engagements, bolstering the image of stability.
Meghan’s role in the narrative
Meghan Markle, though less prominent in recent discussions, remains a polarizing figure. Her decision to hire a former Bill Gates employee, an expert in managing high-value estates, was seen by the press as a sign of the couple’s expanding US ventures. Meghan, who launched American Riviera Orchard in 2024, focuses on commercial and charitable projects.
Her relationship with the monarchy remains strained. Sources suggest William and Kate view Meghan as an additional barrier to reconciliation. The British press often blames her for Harry’s exit, a narrative the couple has challenged in interviews.
- US ventures: Meghan pursues business and philanthropy.
- Media criticism: The duchess faces negative headlines.
- Ties with Kate: The two have not resolved public disputes.
Monarchy’s broader challenges
The British monarchy, steeped in centuries of tradition, is at a crossroads. The Harry-William rift reflects not only personal disputes but also structural questions about the role of non-working royals in the line of succession. Charles’ will, though private, symbolizes these tensions.
William, as the future king, prioritizes the Crown’s continuity. His resistance to Harry’s return, analysts say, aims to avoid precedents that could weaken the monarchy. Charles, meanwhile, seeks family harmony without undermining the institution.
The issue remains unresolved. Future events, like Charles’ Silver Jubilee in 2027, may provide opportunities for public gestures of unity, but the brothers hold the key to any resolution.
Harry’s life in the US
In the United States, Harry and Meghan have built a new life centered on projects like the Archewell Foundation. Founded in 2020, the organization supports mental health and gender equality initiatives. Despite their achievements, the couple faces criticism for their media-heavy approach, seen as at odds with their privacy goals.
Harry remains committed to the Invictus Games, a sporting event for military veterans. The 2025 games, set for Australia, will see his participation. These endeavors underscore the couple’s independence, yet they do little to quell media interest in their royal ties.

The absence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from the 80th anniversary celebrations of Victory in Europe (VE) Day last Thursday reignited discussions about the ongoing rift within the British royal family. The event, marking Germany’s surrender in World War II, brought together nearly all senior royals, except the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Their estrangement, which began with their departure from royal duties in 2020, has taken new turns following Harry’s recent public statements.
Insiders close to the monarchy suggest that the primary barrier to reconciliation is not just past grievances but a more tangible issue: King Charles III’s will. British media reports indicate that Prince William, the heir to the throne, plays a significant role in shaping his father’s decisions.
- Recent statements: Harry expressed a desire for reconciliation in a BBC interview.
- 2020 split: The couple stepped back from royal roles, sparking public tensions.
- Will concerns: William fears the implications of any deal between Charles and Harry.
This situation exposes a divided monarchy, caught between personal loyalties and institutional priorities. Buckingham Palace, a historic seat of power, now grapples with a family dilemma that could shape the Crown’s future.
Will as a stumbling block
King Charles III’s will has emerged as a focal point in the tensions between the brothers. According to the Daily Beast, William is concerned that financial or institutional agreements made by his father with Harry could complicate his future reign. The Prince of Wales’ team reportedly advised Charles to avoid decisions that would force William to manage Harry’s return to the royal fold.
Sources tied to Kensington Palace, the official residence of William and Kate, emphasize that the heir views reconciliation as a potential threat to the monarchy’s stability. This stance is not new. In 2024, friends of the couple told The Telegraph that William frequently opposes Charles’ efforts to mend family ties.
- Inheritance worries: William aims to safeguard his future authority.
- Strained ties: The brothers’ animosity has persisted since 2020.
- Pressure on Charles: The king faces a delicate balancing act.
While the details of the will remain confidential, such documents are standard in royal successions to prevent institutional crises. Harry’s unique position—estranged yet still in the line of succession—adds complexity to the issue.

Harry’s BBC interview
In his recent BBC interview, Harry openly expressed a wish to rebuild ties with his family. He highlighted the importance of resolving conflicts for the sake of his children, Archie and Lilibet, who have limited contact with their grandparents and cousins. The remarks, though conciliatory, were met with skepticism by parts of the British press.
The Duke of Sussex explained that his 2020 exit from the monarchy was driven by privacy and security concerns, but he acknowledged that family tensions have worsened since. The globally broadcast interview rekindled public interest in the royal rift. Many see Harry’s words as an attempt to soften the negative narrative surrounding him since his move to the United States.
British media, however, framed the interview as subtle pressure on Charles and William. The Times suggested Harry is seeking to regain some influence within the monarchy, despite holding no official role. Buckingham Palace’s silence on the matter signals the issue’s sensitivity.
Roots of the rift
The discord between Harry and William predates their public fallout. Reports indicate the brothers clashed over Meghan’s role in the royal family. The duchess, viewed as a progressive figure, faced intense media scrutiny, which deepened Harry’s sense of alienation.
In 2019, Harry confirmed a “rift” with his brother during an ITV documentary. The situation escalated with the couple’s decision to step back from royal duties, a move dubbed “Megxit” that caught the monarchy off guard. The announcement triggered a media frenzy and laid bare internal palace divisions.
- 2019 documentary: Harry admitted to tensions with William.
- 2020 departure: The couple sought financial independence in the US.
- Oprah interview: In 2021, Harry and Meghan shared details of the rift.
- Memoir release: Harry’s 2023 book “Spare” detailed family conflicts.
Harry’s memoir, “Spare,” marked a low point in relations. The bestselling book included direct accusations against William and Charles, recounting personal disputes. The monarchy chose not to respond officially, but insiders said the book made immediate reconciliation nearly impossible.
Charles’ role in the conflict
King Charles III, despite his authority as monarch, faces constraints in uniting his sons. Sources told the Daily Beast that Charles longs to reintegrate Harry, particularly for the sake of his grandchildren. However, William’s influence as the future king heavily shapes palace decisions.
Charles, who ascended the throne in 2022 after Queen Elizabeth II’s death, is navigating institutional challenges, including modernizing the monarchy and cutting operational costs. The family crisis, while secondary, affects the Crown’s public image. The king strives to balance his role as a father with his duties as monarch.
Charles’ health has added another layer of complexity. After a cancer diagnosis in 2024, he scaled back public appearances, increasing the burden on William and Kate. Harry’s absence from events like VE Day underscores the monarchy’s streamlined operations.
British media’s response
The UK press closely tracks the royal crisis, with outlets divided in their coverage. Tabloids like The Sun and The Daily Mail often portray Harry as a destabilizing force. In contrast, The Guardian highlights the emotional complexity of Charles’ predicament.
- The Sun: Criticized Harry for “exposing” the family.
- The Daily Mail: Suggested William is “protecting” the monarchy.
- The Guardian: Noted the personal toll of the conflict.
Media coverage reflects public fascination with the royal drama. A 2025 YouGov poll found that 60% of Britons want Harry to reconcile with his family, but only 30% believe it will happen soon. Public sentiment, however, appears to have little sway over palace decisions.
Impact on royal events
Harry and Meghan’s absence from VE Day celebrations drew attention. The event, attended by Charles, Camilla, William, Kate, and other senior royals, featured speeches on unity and resilience. The lack of the Sussexes sparked comments on social media and in the press.
Other occasions, like Trooping the Colour and Christmas at Sandringham, have similarly highlighted Harry’s absence. Since 2020, the couple has attended few royal events, with the notable exception of Elizabeth II’s funeral in 2022, where Harry and William appeared together but showed no public warmth.
The monarchy has worked to project unity through its remaining members. Kate Middleton, in particular, has taken a prominent role in public engagements, bolstering the image of stability.
Meghan’s role in the narrative
Meghan Markle, though less prominent in recent discussions, remains a polarizing figure. Her decision to hire a former Bill Gates employee, an expert in managing high-value estates, was seen by the press as a sign of the couple’s expanding US ventures. Meghan, who launched American Riviera Orchard in 2024, focuses on commercial and charitable projects.
Her relationship with the monarchy remains strained. Sources suggest William and Kate view Meghan as an additional barrier to reconciliation. The British press often blames her for Harry’s exit, a narrative the couple has challenged in interviews.
- US ventures: Meghan pursues business and philanthropy.
- Media criticism: The duchess faces negative headlines.
- Ties with Kate: The two have not resolved public disputes.
Monarchy’s broader challenges
The British monarchy, steeped in centuries of tradition, is at a crossroads. The Harry-William rift reflects not only personal disputes but also structural questions about the role of non-working royals in the line of succession. Charles’ will, though private, symbolizes these tensions.
William, as the future king, prioritizes the Crown’s continuity. His resistance to Harry’s return, analysts say, aims to avoid precedents that could weaken the monarchy. Charles, meanwhile, seeks family harmony without undermining the institution.
The issue remains unresolved. Future events, like Charles’ Silver Jubilee in 2027, may provide opportunities for public gestures of unity, but the brothers hold the key to any resolution.
Harry’s life in the US
In the United States, Harry and Meghan have built a new life centered on projects like the Archewell Foundation. Founded in 2020, the organization supports mental health and gender equality initiatives. Despite their achievements, the couple faces criticism for their media-heavy approach, seen as at odds with their privacy goals.
Harry remains committed to the Invictus Games, a sporting event for military veterans. The 2025 games, set for Australia, will see his participation. These endeavors underscore the couple’s independence, yet they do little to quell media interest in their royal ties.
