In a revealing interview with BBC News last May, Prince Harry suggested that his father, Charles III, faced serious health challenges, which, according to royal expert Christopher Andersen, led to significant distress for Duchess Kate.
Andersen’s upcoming book, “Kate! The Courage, Grace and Power of the Woman Who Would Become Queen,” includes commentary that suggests the interview left Kate feeling “more disappointed than angry” at Harry’s candid remarks regarding Charles’s health.
During the interview, Harry expressed uncertainty about his father’s longevity, mentioning that he didn’t know “how much longer my dad was going to live.” This comment particularly affected Kate, who, according to a staff member at Sandringham, is known for her sweetness but also has her limits.
At that point, Harry was referencing Charles’s cancer diagnosis from February 2024, and subsequently, the king has been undergoing treatment and reportedly has had positive updates regarding his health.
In Andersen’s insights, he noted that Kate’s bond with Charles regarding their shared experiences with cancer made her especially sensitive to Harry’s comments. She understands the weight of publicly speculating about someone’s possible death, something that is “deeply demoralizing.”
Despite being known for her calm demeanor in family conflicts, Kate’s response shifted; she sided with her husband, Prince William, who was reportedly furious over Harry’s interview.
William had already distanced himself from Harry after issues raised in Harry’s memoir, “Spare,” and it seems that Kate’s loyalty has now fallen in line with her husband’s perspective.
Andersen voiced skepticism about any chance of reconciliation between Harry and Kate anytime soon, suggesting that their relationship may not mend in the near future.
Since stepping back from royal duties in January 2020, Harry has been spotted with his father and brother occasionally. He now resides in Montecito, California, with Meghan and their two children, Archie and Lilibet.
Despite previous criticisms of the royal family, there are indications that Harry is looking for some form of reconciliation with them.
Andersen’s book is set for release on May 5th.
