The Royal Rift: How William's Upcoming Coronation Could Redefine His Bond with Brother Harry

As the world anticipates a new chapter in the British monarchy, speculation grows around Prince William's future as king. Many believe Queen Elizabeth II will pass the crown directly to William, bypassing his father, Prince Charles. How will Prince Harry respond to this shift?

In recent years, the British royal family has faced unprecedented challenges. From Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's public battles with the media and candid interviews about royal pressures, to Prince Andrew's controversies linked to Jeffrey Epstein, the monarchy's image has been tested repeatedly. The departure of Harry and Meghan, often dubbed 'Megxit,' further stirred public discourse.

Royal commentators suggest that Queen Elizabeth II, now in her mid-90s, struggles to maintain harmony within the family. Tensions not only involve her middle son and one of her daughters-in-law but also her beloved grandsons, whose relationship has noticeably cooled. Rumors intensify that William's approach to kingship is widening the gap between him and Harry.

From childhood, the sons of the Prince and Princess of Wales shared a close bond. William understood from an early age the weight of royal duties, while Harry recognized his position further down the line of succession, embracing a freer lifestyle.

Ken Wharf, a former security officer for Princess Diana, recounted that Harry often expressed relief at having fewer responsibilities than William. He proudly told William, "I can do whatever I want because I won't be king, unlike you."

Following their mother's tragic passing, Harry's rebellious streak intensified—nightclub escapades, fleeting romances, and clashes with paparazzi marked his youth. Notably, his 2005 appearance at a costume party dressed in a Nazi uniform sparked outrage and family reprimands. William attended the same event in a lion costume, which attracted far less attention.

After serving in the military, Harry matured but retained his spirited nature. His charity work softened public perception, yet his life took a dramatic turn upon meeting Meghan Markle.

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Before Meghan, Harry's relationships included Chelsea Davy and Cressida Bonas, alongside numerous casual encounters. Meghan, an American actress, sparked curiosity and skepticism among the traditionally reserved British royals. Expectations of a turbulent breakup and media frenzy loomed, yet Harry announced their engagement just a year after their public debut.

The news surprised many, including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, marking the first visible strain in William and Harry's friendship.

William felt Harry rushed into commitment with a Hollywood starlet, especially compared to his own seven-year courtship with Catherine Middleton.

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Kate endured the lengthy wait with grace, eventually marrying William in a grand ceremony at Westminster Abbey, adorned in an Alexander McQueen gown and Cartier tiara—emerging victorious in their romantic journey.

In contrast, Harry's relationship with the 'Suits' actress progressed rapidly, drawing media scrutiny and fueling tensions within the family.

The British press often seemed intent on highlighting discord between the brothers and their wives. Meghan faced criticism for breaking royal protocols, while Kate's similar actions were largely overlooked.

Harry, weary of media speculation, revealed that his relationship with William had cooled, acknowledging they had "different paths"—confirming widespread assumptions.

According to an insider speaking to People magazine, the impending responsibilities awaiting the Duke of Cambridge are a key factor in their growing distance.

"William is the future king, and that puts an end to his relationship with Harry," the source revealed.

Interestingly, Prince Charles, the heir apparent, remains less discussed in the public eye, creating an impression that he is sidelined, while William steps into the spotlight. Behind the scenes, Charles and Queen Elizabeth II's relationship appears complex, with Harry closely trailing William in the line of succession.

Should Charles ascend the throne, he is expected to bestow the title of Prince of Wales upon William, who would also become Duke of Cornwall, while Harry's titles are unlikely to change.

Though Harry never openly pursued the throne, Meghan's strong-willed presence reportedly influenced his ambitions. Some insiders suggest Meghan wields significant influence over Harry, who is said to comply with her wishes readily.

Meghan's free-spirited American background and candid demeanor broke many royal conventions, often drawing media backlash and public scrutiny.

Public fascination and criticism followed Meghan wherever she went, with some suggesting she faced judgment regardless of her actions.

Contrary to the image of a victimized outsider, Meghan's reportedly challenging personality led to staff departures and whispered complaints, as revealed by sources close to the Sussexes in the Daily Mail.

Harry himself once remarked, "Whatever Meghan wants, she gets," a statement highlighted in Robert Johnson's book, "Charles at 70: Thoughts, Hopes, and Dreams." This candid admission surprised many, considering Meghan's modest upbringing.

Unsurprisingly, William viewed his brother's swift commitment with skepticism, believing Harry's decision was hasty. Reports from The Sun suggest Harry reacted angrily to William's criticism, accusing him of attempting to sabotage his relationship.

Kate Middleton, typically reserved in family disputes, reportedly felt slighted when Queen Elizabeth II invited Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland, to Sandringham for Christmas in 2018—a gesture not extended to her own family. This incident reportedly caused tension between Kate and Meghan.

A royal insider revealed, "Kate understands Meghan's strained family ties, but that doesn't mean she should have everything handed to her so easily."

Currently, William stands second in line to the throne, while Harry is sixth—a position diminished further by the birth of William's children. In 2015, Harry expressed no regrets about his place in succession, citing his nephews as "the most wonderful creatures in the world."

Have Harry's perspectives changed since then, especially after becoming a husband and father?

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Experts agree that the growing distance between William and Harry was inevitable, fueled by contrasting personalities and the heavy expectations placed on William from an early age. While William faced strict scrutiny, Harry's missteps were often overlooked. Interestingly, their wives face similar disparities in public opinion, with Kate widely admired and Meghan frequently criticized.

Ultimately, it's unsurprising that William and Harry have embarked on divergent paths. Whether this will lead to further conflicts behind palace doors remains to be seen. While a permanent estrangement seems unlikely, the world watches keenly to see how Harry will respond once William is crowned king.

Photo credits: Getty Images

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