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Prince Harry Chose ‘Not to Be in the Same Room with His Stepmother’ While Visiting His Ailing Father, Her Friend Claims

A British journalist sheds light on the strained dynamics within the royal household, revealing deep-seated tensions. Amidst family health concerns, the saga of complex relationships and personal sacrifices unfolds, offering a rare glimpse into private royal conflicts.

Prince Harry at the 13th Annual NFL Honors in Las Vegas, Nevada on February 8, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Prince Harry at the 13th Annual NFL Honors in Las Vegas, Nevada on February 8, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Prince Harry’s visit to see his ailing father, King Charles III, has reignited discussions about the delicate fabric of royal family relationships, especially concerning his stepmother, Queen Camilla. British journalist Petronella Wyatt, a longtime acquaintance of the Queen, shared her own insights concerning Prince Harry’s meeting with the King.

Wyatt reported that the Duke of Sussex had no desire to be around Queen Camilla, her statement highlighting that Prince Harry appears to be uncomfortable in the Queen’s presence.

Queen Camilla during her visit to East London, England on January 23, 2019 | Source: Getty Images

Queen Camilla during her visit to East London, England on January 23, 2019 | Source: Getty Images

“Harry, I hear, preferred not to be in the same room with his stepmother when he spoke to the King about his cancer diagnosis,” Wyatt revealed. The journalist, puzzled by Prince Harry’s animosity, also suggested that the Prince might have exhausted his list of family members to criticize, given his history of public revelations.

Prince Harry spotted in New York City on May 16, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

Prince Harry spotted in New York City on May 16, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

Defending Queen Camilla, Wyatt stated, “To what has sometimes been her detriment, she is incapable of machinations of any kind,” challenging the negative portrayal by Prince Harry. This defense introduces a contrasting narrative to the one Prince Harry presented in his memoir, “Spare.”

In “Spare,” the father of two delved into his uneasy relationship with Queen Camilla, where he recounted, “I had complex feelings about gaining a step-parent who, I believed, had recently sacrificed me on her personal PR altar.” He reiterated, “For some time this person had been peddling unflattering stories, fake stories, about the Heir and the Spare to all the papers,” implicating Queen Camilla in a campaign of misinformation.

Queen Camilla, Prince William and Prince Harry at the 30th Anniversary of the Prince's Trust Charity concert in London, England in 2006. | Source: Getty Images

Queen Camilla, Prince William and Prince Harry at the 30th Anniversary of the Prince’s Trust Charity concert in London, England in 2006. | Source: Getty Images

Despite these turbulent feelings, Prince Harry emphasized his wish for his father’s happiness, extending this to Queen Camilla. Yet, he candidly shared the symbolic displacement he felt when his bedroom was transformed into the Queen’s dressing room, revealing, “Camilla turned my bedroom into her dressing room. I tried not to care. But, especially the first time I saw it, I cared.”

This layered narrative, combining Wyatt’s defense and Prince Harry’s personal reflections, paints a complex picture of royal family dynamics, where personal feelings and public perceptions clash. The Duke of Sussex’s struggle to reconcile his desire for family unity with his experiences of loss and exclusion underlines the ongoing challenges faced by the royal family in balancing their private lives with their public roles.

The saga of Prince Harry’s relationship with his stepmother, Queen Camilla, highlights the nuanced and often painful reality of merging families in the unforgiving public eye.

Through his own words, Prince Harry invites the world to understand the depth of his feelings and the complexity of royal family relationships, marked by a continuous search for understanding, acceptance, and, ultimately, peace within the family fold.

As previously reported on February 8:

Prince Harry at the NHL game between the Vancouver Canucks the San Jose Sharks in British Columbia, Canada on November 20, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

Prince Harry at the NHL game between the Vancouver Canucks the San Jose Sharks in British Columbia, Canada on November 20, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

When Prince Harry recently went to London to see King Charles III after his cancer diagnosis was revealed, he stayed in a lavish hotel. The King of England’s former butler, Grant Harrold, said that Prince Harry did so as a way to show his family that he could financially support himself without their help.

A media outlet revealed that Grant and King Charles III had a working relationship spanning seven years. At the time, the King of England was still the Prince of Wales.

King Charles III and Prince Harry at the Invictus Games Opening Ceremony in London, England on September 10, 2014 | Source: Getty Images

King Charles III and Prince Harry at the Invictus Games Opening Ceremony in London, England on September 10, 2014 | Source: Getty Images

As reported by Grant, Prince Harry opted for the hotel because he wanted to prove that he was “grown up enough to fund himself.” The King’s former butler then went on to state, “It’s strange he’s not staying at any royal residences because obviously, when they were growing up, they had rooms at Clarence House and at Highgrove.”

Prince Harry and King Charles III posing for a picture at home in Kensington Palace on October 4, 1985 | Source: Getty Images

Prince Harry and King Charles III posing for a picture at home in Kensington Palace on October 4, 1985 | Source: Getty Images

Grant expanded on his reasoning by asserting his opinion that Prince Harry’s choice did not make sense security-wise. Since stepping down from his royal role, news sources have stipulated that the Duke of Sussex has been traveling with his own security team.

Prince Harry at the F1 Grand Prix in Austin, Texas on October 22, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

Prince Harry at the F1 Grand Prix in Austin, Texas on October 22, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

On this and the status of Prince Harry’s familial relationships, Grant explained, “Obviously, it’s not the best sign if he’s staying at a hotel, because you’d have thought he’d possibly stay with his brother [Prince William] and sister-in-law [Kate Middleton] potentially, or at one of his father’s homes.”

He went on to note, “If there is an ongoing fallout between him and his brother, it’s possible that he may not have been given the offer to stay.”

Princess Catherine, Prince William, and Prince Harry at the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service in London, England on December 14, 2017 | Source: Getty Images

Princess Catherine, Prince William, and Prince Harry at the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service in London, England on December 14, 2017 | Source: Getty Images

Regarding Prince Harry’s visit, a media outlet reported that King Charles III was allegedly unpleased as his travel plans were delayed in waiting for his son’s arrival. Apparently, the King had plans to travel to Norfolk for tranquility.

Although many speculations have surfaced concerning why Prince Harry’s visit with the King was so brief, a British expert named Richard Fitzwilliams set the record straight. He mentioned that because King Charles III has started treatment, he may have just been tired, prompting the brevity of the meeting.

As previously reported on February 8:

The Duchess of Sussex has been spotted out and about for the first time since her husband caught a flight to London to visit King Charles III amid his cancer diagnosis. Pictures showed Meghan Markle flashing a smile as she drove around Montecito.

From what was seen, she opted for a comfy, casual look, which included sunglasses and a baseball cap. She also held a coffee mug in one of her hands.

Someone else remarked, “Smiling like a Cheshire Cat to hide the fact KC had barely 30 mins for Harry. If you believe some reports, it was more like 12 mins […] that’s pretty embarrassing. Actions have consequences!”

A social media user pondered, “She’s happy Charles is ill?” Another asserted, “How embarrassing M, now we know why Harry went! PR stunt!” Someone else stated, “Exclusive woman smiles [knowing] her husband is safely coming back to her loving arms after being in a country where the media, reporters and self-appointed experts are being violent and vicious in speech and thoughts.”

Meghan Markle spotted arriving for the Ripple Awards Gala in New York City on December 6, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Meghan Markle spotted arriving for the Ripple Awards Gala in New York City on December 6, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Other less negative comments focused on Prince Harry visiting his dad and someone also posted a comment in defense of Meghan. One person rhetorically questioned, “You want her to start mourning when the King is still alive? Na […]!” Another person highlighted, “Harry did the right thing [seeing] his father after the cancer diagnosis. He is a great son.”

Prince Harry at the WellChild Awards in London, England on September 7, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

Prince Harry at the WellChild Awards in London, England on September 7, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

Yesterday, a news outlet reported that Prince Harry was already en route back home from London. The Duke of Sussex had spent 24 hours in his homeland. He landed in London after 2 p.m. this past Tuesday, then went to see his father—as reported by a news source—for 45 minutes.

As previously reported on February 7:

While there has been tension between Prince Harry and his family since he moved to the US and left his post as a working senior royal, he still rushed home to be with his father amidst the King’s cancer diagnosis. Meanwhile, his wife stayed in California with their kids.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in New York in 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in New York in 2022 | Source: Getty Images

According to the King’s former butler, Meghan Markle’s choice resulted from her thinking that being by the King’s side was “something [Prince Harry] has to do alone.”

King Charles III and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, at the "Our Planet" global premiere at the Natural History Museum on April 04, 2019, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

King Charles III and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, at the “Our Planet” global premiere at the Natural History Museum on April 04, 2019, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

His Majesty’s former aide, Grant Harrold, said, “Meghan made the decision that it was best to stay home with the children, and maybe she feels that this is something Harry has got to do alone.” He believes that the former actress played a role in encouraging Harry to go to London.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at a local farming family, the Woodleys, on October 17, 2018 in Dubbo, Australia. | Source: Getty Images

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at a local farming family, the Woodleys, on October 17, 2018 in Dubbo, Australia. | Source: Getty Images

Meghan may still visit her father-in-law in the near future, royal experts believe. However, at the moment, she will be focusing on caring for her two children in California.

“I’m sure at some point they will bring the grandchildren over; that might be part of what’s being discussed — an opportunity for them to come over as a family,” Harrold added.

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex on September 5, 2022 in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex on September 5, 2022 in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Meghan has said positive things about Harry’s dad in the past, including the kindness he showed during their wedding. In her Netflix documentary, “Harry & Meghan,” she revealed that King Charles’ role in walking her down the aisle on her special day was very important, given her biological father’s decision not to attend due to a paparazzi scandal and health issues.

The King also helped choose the song Meghan walked down the aisle to. Sadly, in years after, Meghan’s relationship with the royal family did not flourish.

King Charles III watches an RAF flypast from the balcony of Buckingham Palace on May 6, 2023 in London, England | Source: Getty Images

King Charles III watches an RAF flypast from the balcony of Buckingham Palace on May 6, 2023 in London, England | Source: Getty Images

King Charles III’s illness is undoubtedly a tragedy for the royal family. However, it may also be the very reason their family reunites again, following Harry’s decision to step back from senior royal duties and move to a different country.

Royal expert Gareth Russell weighed in on the situation, noting that a grave illness such as Cancer is never taken lightly by the diagnosed patient’s family members. Likely, ill feelings and differences in character are put aside.

As previously reported on February 6:

Buckingham Palace's King Charles III cancer diagnosis announcement posted on February 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theroyalfamily

Buckingham Palace’s King Charles III cancer diagnosis announcement posted on February 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theroyalfamily

Prince Harry is returning to England to support his father, King Charles III, after the monarch’s recent cancer diagnosis. The Duke of Sussex, aged 39, is scheduled to arrive in London on Monday, according to a confirmation from the office of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

Prince Harry and King Charles at the Gurkha 200 Pageant in London, England on June 9, 2015 | Source: Getty Images

Prince Harry and King Charles at the Gurkha 200 Pageant in London, England on June 9, 2015 | Source: Getty Images

Prince Harry has already been in contact with King Charles following his diagnosis. Still, it has been disclosed that Meghan Markle, Harry’s wife, and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, will not accompany him on this trip to support his father through this health scare.

King Charles III and Prince Harry at the 'International Year of The Reef' 2018 | Source: Getty Images

King Charles III and Prince Harry at the ‘International Year of The Reef’ 2018 | Source: Getty Images

Royal staffers have kept Prince Harry updated on the 75-year-old King’s health status, including the specifics of a recent prostate procedure. Prince Harry has previously shared his complex feelings surrounding family and duty. The King once asked his sons not to make the last years of his life “a misery” with the rift between them.

King Charles III and Prince Harry during the the commemorations for Gallipoli Campaign Centenary | Source: Getty Images

King Charles III and Prince Harry during the the commemorations for Gallipoli Campaign Centenary | Source: Getty Images

Harry has recounted instances from his past, including the profound impact of his grandfather’s counsel at Windsor, where the elder statesman had settled.

Prince Harry, Prince William, and King Charles III at the Invictus Games Opening Ceremony in 2014 | Source: Getty Images

Prince Harry, Prince William, and King Charles III at the Invictus Games Opening Ceremony in 2014 | Source: Getty Images

Harry has also divulged emotional moments with his brother, Prince William, and his late mother, Princess Diana, drawing poignant connections between his experiences and the responsibilities of his royal lineage.

As previously reported on February 5:

Buckingham Palace has confirmed that King Charles, following a recent health procedure, is now facing a new health challenge. Here are the details.

King Charles at Barnard Castle on February 15, 2018 in Durham, England | Source: Getty Images

King Charles at Barnard Castle on February 15, 2018 in Durham, England | Source: Getty Images

King Charles is confronting a new health challenge, following a recent procedure for an enlarged prostate. Buckingham Palace announced on Monday that the 75-year-old monarch has been diagnosed with cancer.

During the procedure for benign prostate enlargement, doctors discovered a separate issue of concern. Subsequent tests have confirmed a form of cancer, according to a palace statement.

King Charles III inspects the 200th Sovereign's parade at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst on April 14, 2023 in Camberley, England | Source: Getty Images

King Charles III inspects the 200th Sovereign’s parade at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst on April 14, 2023 in Camberley, England | Source: Getty Images

His Majesty has begun a regular treatment schedule and has been advised to postpone public-facing duties. He will, however, continue to handle State business and official paperwork as usual.

The King expressed his gratitude towards his medical team for their prompt intervention, made possible by his recent hospital visit. He remains optimistic about his treatment and aims to return to full public duties soon.

Charles has chosen to publicize his diagnosis to prevent speculation and hopes it will help increase public understanding of cancer. He is determined to assist others worldwide affected by the disease.

The public has rallied on social media to express support and wishes for King Charles following the announcement of his cancer diagnosis. Comments like “Get well soon your Majesty, prayers for your recovery” underscore the concern and hope for the monarch’s swift recuperation.

King Charles III at Windsor Castle, on December 13, 2022 in Windsor, England | Source: Getty Images

King Charles III at Windsor Castle, on December 13, 2022 in Windsor, England | Source: Getty Images

Voices from around the world are reaching out, with one user stating, “My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.” This sentiment reflects the global community’s solidarity with the British royal family during this time.

As previously reported on January 30:

As a positive update on the health situation of the King of England, King Charles III has been discharged from The London Clinic. He walked out of the hospital, hand-in-hand with his beloved wife, Queen Camilla, on Monday afternoon.

The King spent three nights at the clinic, where he received care after undergoing prostate surgery. Footage showed the happy couple, dressed smartly, smiling at the cameras as His Majesty The King waved to the public before getting into their car.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla during day 1 of the Royal Ascot in Ascot, England on June 16, 2015 | Source: Getty Images

King Charles III and Queen Camilla during day 1 of the Royal Ascot in Ascot, England on June 16, 2015 | Source: Getty Images

Another said, “Looks very healthy. But he needs more rest. Hope he finds a quiet spot for a few weeks. Scotland would be perfect 👌😊,” while a third social media user who was pleased by the King’s appearance stated, “Impressed that His Majesty is walking so smoothly.”

King Charles III at the 70th Anniversary of VE Day event in London, England on May 10, 2015 | Source: Getty Images

King Charles III at the 70th Anniversary of VE Day event in London, England on May 10, 2015 | Source: Getty Images

As we continue to follow this unfolding story, a look back at our previous article provides further insights into the Queen’s unwavering support for her husband, the King, as previously reported on January 29:

Since his hospitalization, footage and pictures of Queen Camilla visiting her husband, King Charles III, have sparked online buzz. So far, the Queen has been seen visiting His Majesty The King three times.

Following his corrective surgery, King Charles III has been recovering at the same hospital where the Princess of Wales, Princess Catherine, is. During her first visit, a smiling Queen Camilla adorned a coat-like navy dress as she left the hospital and entered her car.

Queen Camilla seen visiting King Charles III at The London Clinic in London, England on January 26, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Queen Camilla seen visiting King Charles III at The London Clinic in London, England on January 26, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

A video of her second visit showed her royal driver and security team escorting her from The London Clinic. She was dressed in a green and white ensemble. Many had differing opinions when social media users saw Queen Camilla during her visits.

Queen Camilla seen leaving The London Clinic in London, England on January 27, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Queen Camilla seen leaving The London Clinic in London, England on January 27, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

One person felt strongly about Queen Camilla’s visits being her obligation as opposed to something she did because of her devoted love for the King. They expressed, “These shouldn’t be the news headline because it was her duty as his wife to visit the husband.” Another asserted, “Camilla should say very short words concerning her husband. Bizarre.” Someone else noted, “Her eyes aren’t smiling.”

Queen Camilla spotted visiting King Charles III at The London Clinic in London, England on January 28, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Queen Camilla spotted visiting King Charles III at The London Clinic in London, England on January 28, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Despite the judgemental opinions of some, others praised Queen Camilla and continued to send their well wishes to the King. One fan gushed, “The King is lucky to have such a devoted Queen by his side ❤️❤️❤️❤️.”

Another wrote, “Well, I noticed she had a smile on her face. I hope all is well. Hope the King gets discharged soon.” Someone else stated, “He has always been the love of her life and vice versa.”

Queen Camilla and King Charls III during the third day of their visit to Wales in Builth Wells, Wales on  July 4, 2018 | Source: Getty Images

Queen Camilla and King Charls III during the third day of their visit to Wales in Builth Wells, Wales on July 4, 2018 | Source: Getty Images

Before her recent trips to the hospital, Queen Camilla gave a quick update on how her beloved husband has been doing since his operation. In a TikTok video, she divulged, “He’s fine, thank you very much. He’s looking forward to getting back to work.”

The 15-second-long video ends with the Queen walking away from the person who asked her how King Charles III was doing and showed her going to address a group of children.

As previously reported on January 26:

King Charles III waves as he attends the Royal Cornwall Show in Wadebridge, United Kingdom on June 7, 2018. | Source: Getty Images

King Charles III waves as he attends the Royal Cornwall Show in Wadebridge, United Kingdom on June 7, 2018. | Source: Getty Images

King Charles III and Princess of Wales Kate Middleton are facing health issues, leading to the postponement of their royal engagements. Kate underwent a planned abdominal surgery and will be in a London hospital for two weeks from January 16, 2024.

King Charles III kisses the Princess of Wales Kate Middleton at the premiere of the James Bond 007 film "No Time to Die" in West London on September 28, 2021. | Source: Getty Images

King Charles III kisses the Princess of Wales Kate Middleton at the premiere of the James Bond 007 film “No Time to Die” in West London on September 28, 2021. | Source: Getty Images

Both senior royals have had to reschedule their previously arranged public commitments in the coming weeks. Kate, married to Prince William, the heir to the throne, is expected to make a full recovery.

Prince William in a black and white picture posted on December 6, 2022 | Source: Instagram/princeandprincessofwales

Prince William in a black and white picture posted on December 6, 2022 | Source: Instagram/princeandprincessofwales

Princess Catherine in a black and white picture posted on December 6, 2022 | Source: Instagram/princeandprincessofwales

Princess Catherine in a black and white picture posted on December 6, 2022 | Source: Instagram/princeandprincessofwales

Princess Catherine cheering for Prince William at an awards ceremony posted on December 6, 2022 | Source: Instagram/princeandprincessofwales

Princess Catherine cheering for Prince William at an awards ceremony posted on December 6, 2022 | Source: Instagram/princeandprincessofwales

The King was photographed ahead of his planned operation on his way from Clarence House to a London clinic. He went into the same clinic where Kate underwent surgery and even passed by to visit his daughter-in-law. After he was admitted, a spokesperson for Buckingham Palace said the King thanked all who sent him good wishes.

King Charles III attends the presentation of Addresses by both Houses of Parliament in Westminster Hall, central London on September 12, 2022. | Source: Getty Images

King Charles III attends the presentation of Addresses by both Houses of Parliament in Westminster Hall, central London on September 12, 2022. | Source: Getty Images

The public has sent love and prayers to the Princess and the King as they start their respective recovery journeys. “❤️‍🙏 to both,” one person wrote. The public also wished the two a “speedy recovery.” “Wishing King Charles and Princess Catherine a speedy recovery. God Save The King and Catherine of Wales,” another person said.

Princess of Wales Kate Middleton attends the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church in Sandringham, Norfolk on December 25, 2023. | Source: Getty Images

Princess of Wales Kate Middleton attends the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church in Sandringham, Norfolk on December 25, 2023. | Source: Getty Images

The Princess and His Majesty’s health updates were given to avoid speculation if they both fail to attend upcoming events or if some occasions are canceled. A spokesperson for King Charles III also announced the postponement of his public engagements during his recovery.

Several events on the royal family’s agenda, including visits by foreign dignitaries and members of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Cabinet to Dumfries House in Scotland, have already been rescheduled.

King Charles III and the Princess of Wales Kate Middleton during their visit to a training site for arts and culture in London, England on February 3, 2022. | Source: Getty Images

King Charles III and the Princess of Wales Kate Middleton during their visit to a training site for arts and culture in London, England on February 3, 2022. | Source: Getty Images

The Princess of Wales and the King are expected to recover fully and resume their public engagements. Still, as they recuperate, they can count on the public’s well-wishes for a speedy recovery.