Why Princess Diana’s presence might have changed everything
The strained relationship between William and Harry continues to cast a shadow over the monarchy, with many still hoping the brothers will reconcile.
Royal biographer Andrew Morton believes their late mother, Princess Diana, would have stepped in to bridge the gap. Speaking to People magazine, Morton recalled Diana’s belief that she had “two boys for a reason” — the younger to support the elder in the “lonely task” of being King. He is certain she would have acted as a peacemaker, preventing the rift from becoming so deep.
Tensions between the brothers began in 2020, when Harry and Meghan left royal duties and moved to California. The divide widened after their 2021 Oprah interview and Harry’s 2023 memoir Spare, which levelled strong criticism at the royal family. Harry has admitted that “some members of my family will never forgive me.”
Recently, discussions between senior aides to Harry and King Charles raised hopes of a truce. However, William’s team was not involved, and reports suggest Harry’s calls to his brother have gone unanswered. Historian Robert Lacey says both men believe they are defending “profound points of principle.”
Still, each continues to honour their mother’s legacy. William’s Homewards initiative targets homelessness, while Harry’s Sentebale charity aids children affected by HIV/AIDS. Yet, a source close to the royal household summed up the sadness: “They aren’t supporting each other like they should be. That’s what any mother would want.”
