Tom Bower defends past remarks and addresses criticism from Harry and Meghan Markle
Royal author Tom Bower has responded to the backlash from Meghan Markle and Prince Harry after the couple criticised his commentary surrounding his latest book, Betrayal: Power, Deceit and the Fight for the Future of the Royal Family.
The Sussexes previously pushed back at Bower’s remarks through a spokesperson, who said the author’s commentary had moved beyond criticism and into what they described as fixation. The statement pointed to Bower’s earlier comment suggesting that the monarchy depended on “obliterating” the couple from public life.
Speaking to the Daily Mirror, Bower defended both his book and his earlier remarks, explaining the context behind the controversial wording.
“My interview followed Meghan outrageously alleging to Oprah Winfrey that the Royal Family was racist,” Bower said. “Since then they have continued to monetise their status and criticise their family.”
He added that his use of the word “obliterate” referred to a wish that the couple would stop making public attacks on the monarchy.
“In that sense, I meant ‘obliterate’ as a wish for permanent silence,” the author said. “Unfortunately they have chosen to continue to exploit their relationship for their personal and financial advantage.”
Bower also argued that the ongoing tensions have caused long-term harm to the institution, saying he believes the couple’s silence would have been welcomed by the Royal Family.
The author further addressed his criticism of the Invictus Games, the sporting event founded by Harry to support wounded veterans.
Bower said the initiative itself remains admirable but claimed the most recent edition he attended did not meet expectations.
“Invictus is a truly noble cause for genuine heroes,” he said, referring to the event held in Vancouver and Whistler last year. “However, what I saw there failed to live up to the expectations created by the organisers.”
The remarks come as debate continues around Bower’s new book and its claims about the future of the Royal Family and the ongoing tensions between the Sussexes and the monarchy.
