Reconciliation with Prince William Faces Major Challenges Amid Deepening Rift
Royal fans hoping for a reunion between Prince Harry and Prince William may need to temper their expectations, as experts highlight the significant obstacles to reconciliation between the estranged brothers.
Since stepping down as a working royal in 2020, Harry and Meghan Markle’s public criticisms of the royal family and disclosure of private family moments have reportedly left William deeply hurt, with trust between the two at a breaking point.
Royal expert Duncan Larcombe told The Mirror that while forgiveness is possible, Harry faces an uphill battle. “You only have to look at Camilla, who went from being public enemy #1 to our Queen,” Larcombe said. “[Reconciliation] is possible—you can never say never. But as far as we know, William is still very upset by his brother’s behaviour and has broken that trust.”
Larcombe emphasised the royal family’s unwritten rule about discretion: “They don’t go and sell information or cash in on stories by giving interviews. It’s their #1 rule. For anyone who breaks it—whether staff or family—it’s often one strike and you’re out.”
Despite the strained relationship, Larcombe noted that William and Kate are likely monitoring Harry’s latest public moves, including the German documentary Harry - The Lost Prince. “There’s a strong chance they would have someone watch it on their behalf, just to flag anything that needs addressing,” he added.
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond echoed the challenges of reconciliation, suggesting that William has emotionally distanced himself from Harry. “As far as William is concerned, Harry really doesn’t exist,” she told Times Radio.
Bond also noted the pressures weighing on William, including his wife Kate’s ongoing cancer treatment, his responsibilities as heir, and raising his children. “I don’t think he has room in his soul to worry about his estranged brother. I think William has disowned Harry,” she said.
While experts acknowledge that reconciliation is not impossible, they agree that rebuilding trust will require significant time and effort, particularly given the fractured state of their relationship.
