Amidst Princess Kate Middleton’s ongoing battle with cancer, Prince Harry finds himself yet again under public scrutiny, adding another layer of complexity to the intricate dynamics within the royal family.
Reports suggest that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were among the last family members to be informed about Kate’s diagnosis, raising questions about the already strained relationship between the Sussexes and other members of the royal household.
Despite issuing a brief public statement extending well wishes to Kate and her family upon the announcement of her diagnosis, the timing of the Sussexes’ knowledge and their subsequent response has sparked speculation regarding their place within the royal family hierarchy.
Royal historian and expert Dr. Tessa Dunlop weighs in on the matter, suggesting that Harry’s perception of himself as the ‘spare’ royal may have been further amplified by the delicate situation surrounding Kate’s health. “In the wake of his sister-in-law’s health revelations, I expect he feels more spare than ever,” Dr. Dunlop remarked.
Furthermore, as Meghan Markle prepares to launch her new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, the couple finds themselves inadvertently overshadowed by the news of Kate’s illness. Dr. Dunlop emphasizes that while the situation is not entirely of their making, the Sussexes are now facing public scrutiny and find themselves on the “back foot.”
The absence of Prince William and Kate Middleton at the Easter service following Kate’s health disclosure further underscores the complexities within the royal family, with Harry’s distant relationship with his brother and sister-in-law becoming more apparent.