According to sources close to the British Royal Family, Prince William may not invite his younger brother, Prince Harry, to his future coronation as king. This comes amid years of mounting tension and estrangement between the brothers, driven by Harry’s departure from royal duties and subsequent airing of grievances in the media.
Media reports suggest that William, 42, wants his coronation to feel markedly different from traditional royal ceremonies, and this may include excluding Harry from the event. Sources close to Prince William confirmed the strained relationship, noting that the brothers have not spoken since Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in September 2022.
One of William’s friends acknowledged that the brothers’ estrangement is very unfortunate, and as of August 2024, William prefers that Harry not attend his coronation.
The rift between the brothers deepened after Harry, 39, moved to California with his wife, Meghan Markle, and publicly criticized the royal family through a 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, the 2022 Harry & Meghan Netflix series, and his memoir, “Spare.” Harry recounted numerous personal conflicts with William in his book, including a physical altercation in 2019. These revelations have made reconciliation increasingly difficult.
A close friend of King Charles III shared the family’s apprehension regarding any possible encounters with Harry. The issue for the king and other family members is the fear that any conversation with Harry might end up in a sequel to his memoir. According to the friend, regaining trust seems unlikely.
Despite these challenges, King Charles is reportedly hopeful that he can rebuild his relationship with his son, though other members of the family remain more skeptical. According to sources, Charles’ efforts for reconciliation are particularly urgent as he continues to undergo cancer treatment. However, William, who has taken on more royal duties alongside supporting his wife, Kate Middleton, remains focused on his immediate family.
Many believe William still harbors resentment toward Harry for his critical comments about his wife, Kate, in “Spare.” The memoir has had a significant effect on the family, as Harry disclosed personal aspects of his life, deepening the breach of trust within the royal institution. A friend of Harry voiced dismay over his choices, criticizing him for turning to Oprah, Netflix, and then the book, calling it a betrayal.
There is no indication that William is willing to reconcile with Harry. The ongoing estrangement continues to fuel speculation about the monarchy’s future, particularly regarding how William’s coronation might proceed without the presence of his only sibling.
With King Charles III still on the throne, it remains to be seen whether the brothers will mend their relationship before William’s coronation. However, it seems clear that the rift between them has left deep scars, with many royal insiders doubting any possibility of reconciliation in the near future.