Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, was not accompanied by his wife Meghan Markle
Royal observers are hopeful for a reconciliation between two feuding brothers.
Following King Charles III’s announcement of his cancer diagnosis, his younger son, Prince Harry, arrived to support him. A source in the UK informed Fox News Digital on Tuesday that the Duke of Sussex was seen entering Clarence House, the king’s London residence.
His wife Meghan Markle remained in California with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
Christopher Andersen, author of “The King,” told Fox News Digital that now would be a critical moment for Harry and his brother Prince William to set aside their differences for the sake of their father. It is believed that the king is delighted to be reunited with his estranged son during his health battle.
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“Sometimes, it takes a crisis like this to bring families together, and, in that sense, the royal family is no different from any other,” Andersen explained. “I do believe this is a moment when significant progress can be achieved in bridging the gap between Harry and the rest of the royals. We will have to wait and see whether they seize that opportunity or remain unwilling to compromise.”
“Both sides are quite firmly entrenched at this point,” Andersen shared. “There’s a considerable amount of animosity… These individuals are rather stubborn, very determined, and not prone to compromise. However, Harry will certainly want to offer his support to the king in any way he can.”
Royal expert Ian Pelham Turner told Fox News Digital that he believes Harry “will attempt to mend fences” with his father and brother.
“Could this be the beginning of a reconciliation?” he said. “That would be pushing theories too far, but Charles desires Harry’s return.”
However, British royal expert Hilary Fordwich asserted to Fox News Digital that “William is not arranging a meeting with Harry, although Harry would like to meet.”
“Reconciliation, at least from King Charles, is plausible,” said Fordwich. “He is a caring father and has conveyed regret regarding their relationship. William is a different story altogether. Based on what we know, William will undoubtedly prioritize duty above all else. … He has been groomed for this role his entire life.”
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“The continuity of the crown, with over a 1,000-year history, is Prince William’s primary concern,” added Fordwich.
Buckingham Palace announced on Monday that during the king’s recent hospitalization for an enlarged prostate, “a separate issue of concern was noted,” which was later identified as cancer.
“His Majesty has now begun a regimen of regular treatments, during which doctors have advised him to defer public engagements. Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to fulfill state obligations and handle official paperwork as usual,” stated a palace statement.
“The King is appreciative of his medical team for their prompt intervention, facilitated by his recent hospital procedure. He maintains a positive outlook towards his treatment and eagerly anticipates resuming full public duties at the earliest opportunity.”
On Monday, a source informed Fox News Digital that the Duke of Sussex, aged 39, had prior communication with his father, aged 75 before news of his illness was made public.
“The duke did indeed speak with his father about his diagnosis,” the source confirmed.
In 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back as senior members of the royal family and relocated to California. During this time, they alleged that palace officials were unsupportive of Meghan Markle’s mental health challenges as she adapted to royal life. The couple also asserted that Markle faced discriminatory treatment from the British press, which contributed to their decision to leave the UK.
Following their departure, the couple publicly aired their grievances about life within the royal family. In 2021, they participated in an interview with Oprah Winfrey, which was watched by 50 million viewers globally. Additionally, after releasing a six-part documentary series on Netflix in 2022, Harry’s memoir titled “Spare” was published in 2023, quickly becoming a bestseller.
The relationship between the brothers, already strained by the time Harry left, deteriorated further when he publicly discussed his grievances. In his bestselling book, Harry also delved into their sibling rivalry.
“It would be hopeful to consider that a reconciliation is possible, given the current circumstances,” said Andersen. “One could look at this situation and think, ‘Wow, if this doesn’t bring them back together, nothing will.'”
Andersen asserted that there is a “genuine, deep-seated animosity” between the brothers that will require time to mend.
“William likely prefers to handle things independently and not have the added challenge of dealing with Harry,” said Andersen. “Despite ongoing grievances, Harry understands better than anyone the immense pressure his brother is facing. … the weight of the world may rest on William’s shoulders.”
On January 17, it was announced that Charles was scheduled to undergo a “corrective procedure” for his enlarged prostate. The palace later confirmed that the surgery had been successful.
“His Majesty is recovering quite well,” a royal source informed Fox News Digital.
Charles, who assumed the throne 16 months ago, received the diagnosis of the benign condition on January 17 after experiencing undisclosed symptoms. He canceled engagements and was advised to rest before the procedure.
The London Clinic private hospital is the same facility where Charles’ daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, underwent planned abdominal surgery.
On January 17, the palace disclosed that the Duchess of Cambridge had undergone “planned abdominal surgery” at The London Clinic the day before.
“The surgery was successful, and it is anticipated that she will stay in the hospital for 10 to 14 days before returning home to continue her recuperation,” a palace statement announced. “Based on current medical advice, she is not expected to resume public duties until after Easter.”
Kensington Palace recently announced that the mother of three had returned home to “continue her recovery from surgery,” noting that she is “making good progress.” William had taken time off from his royal duties to support his wife and assist in caring for their three young children.
“Prince William is already worried about his wife’s well-being and will now be distressed and concerned for his father’s well-being,” royal broadcaster and photographer Helena Chard told Fox News Digital.
“In addition to these personal concerns, he has an extensive royal workload,” Chard added. “Prince William understandably does not trust his brother, and without non-disclosure agreements in place, I cannot see them conversing.”
Still, Chard emphasized, that there is always hope.
“This is the greatest chance for Prince William and Prince Harry to set aside some time to talk,” she explained. “I sincerely hope that they both view this as an opportunity to work towards reconciliation, even if it progresses one step at a time. Additionally, I hope that Prince Harry has a change of heart and demonstrates more compassion towards his family. Family discord should be eased to some extent during a health crisis.”