As tensions grow between Prince William and Prince Harry, discussions have reignited about Princess Diana’s alleged efforts to prepare Harry for potential kingship. Richard Kay, a respected royal biographer and close associate of the late Princess of Wales, revealed insights during a Daily Mail podcast. He mentioned that Diana felt William understood his royal destiny, though he still exhibited signs of shyness and anxiety regarding it.
Kay noted that William was often surprised and, back when Diana was alive, she didn’t realize he was interested in what she referred to as the “top job” of monarchy. It was generally expected that he would, at some point, take on the responsibility of wearing the crown.
Diana appeared to be nurturing a path for Harry as well, giving him the nickname “Good King Harry,” a nod to medieval times, but circumstances changed. Some royal commentators, however, contested this assertion, emphasizing that Diana was aware that the crown was destined for William, not Harry.
Kinsey Schofield, a royal expert, weighed in, stating that while William certainly didn’t campaign for the crown, he grew up knowing it was his fate. She described his development as one marked more by a sense of duty than ambition. Schofield further remarked that Diana, as a mother, was more focused on managing the different personalities of her sons than on predicting future roles.
Others echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Diana’s actions were aimed more at emotional balance in her family rather than a reflection of succession anxiety. Schofield indicated that the monarchy has had a clear succession path; Diana comprehended the emotional burden associated with that role, particularly for William.
Reflecting on the evolution of the brothers, it seems sibling rivalry was always a factor. Diana acknowledged the need for both to support each other, despite their diverging paths. It’s said she was acutely aware of Harry’s feelings about being seen as second-best and sought to alleviate those sentiments.
In her famous 1995 interview with the BBC, Diana made it clear that if anyone were to take the throne sooner than expected, it would be William, not Harry. This indicates she knew exactly who she believed should don the crown.
As both brothers manage their public lives differently now, with William leaning heavily into philanthropy and a sense of duty, there’s a palpable sense that while they may not share a common language anymore, the shadow of their mother’s influence looms large. Diana’s untimely death in 1997 still resonates deeply with them, and it reflects not just in their public personas, but also in the complicated bond they share.
