Advertisement
As Prince Harry prepares for his upcoming trip to the U.K. to attend the WellChild charity’s annual awards ceremony on September 30, speculation swirls around the possibility of a reconciliation with his father, King Charles III. However, the lingering hurt over past betrayals, particularly involving Harry’s children, may complicate any chance for a joyful reunion.
The relationship between Harry and Charles has been fraught since Harry and Meghan Markle stepped back from their royal duties in 2020. Their move to the United States, coupled with public comments about their experiences within the royal family, has created a significant rift. Recent gestures, such as the royal family extending public birthday wishes to Harry on his 40th birthday, have raised hopes among royal watchers for improved relations.
A notable incident that has added to King Charles’s disappointment occurred during a phone call Harry made to his father on the King’s 75th birthday in November 2023. Initially perceived as a positive step, the call included Harry’s children, Archie and Lilibet, singing “Happy Birthday” to their grandfather. However, details of the conversation quickly leaked to the media, reportedly from sources close to the Sussexes. This breach of privacy deeply upset Charles, who values his few private moments amid his public life.
Despite his anger and hurt over the leaked details, King Charles is said to be open to reconciling with Harry. According to royal editor Rebecca English, “Charles is angry, and he is hurt, but he is still his son at the end of the day.” This sentiment reflects a desire to keep the door open for a potential mending of their relationship.
However, the logistics of a potential meeting during Harry’s visit may pose a challenge. Just days before the WellChild Awards, King Charles and Queen Camilla are scheduled to attend the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh, likely keeping them hundreds of miles away from Harry’s London event. Although plans could change, current schedules suggest a face-to-face meeting is unlikely, which is unfortunate for Charles, especially in light of recent criticisms about his public birthday wishes to Harry being perceived as pretentious.
If reports about Harry’s actions being taken without informing Charles are accurate, it could paint Harry in a hypocritical light regarding his demands for privacy. The next week will be critical for Harry and Charles as they decide whether to address their fractured relationship. All eyes will be on this situation as royal watchers await updates on the potential for reconciliation.