The Duke of Cambridge has spoken out publicly for the first time since his brother, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle’s explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey. In a rare departure from royal protocol, Prince William addressed a question about the interview while visiting a school in East London with the Duchess of Cambridge.
When asked by a reporter if the Royal Family is racist, Prince William firmly stated, “We are very much not a racist family.” This statement comes on the heels of Meghan and Harry’s claim that a member of the Royal Family expressed concerns about the skin color of their unborn child.
The Duke’s response, though brief, reflects the deep rift that has formed between the brothers. Tensions have been high since Harry and Meghan’s decision to step back from their roles as senior members of the Royal Family. The couple’s subsequent move to California and tell-all interview have only served to exacerbate the situation.
Prince William and Kate Middleton on an official visit
Body language experts have scrutinized Prince William’s demeanor during the exchange with the press. Some observed that the Duke appeared tense and angry, suggesting that the allegations of racism have deeply affected him and the Royal Family.
The interview has sparked a global conversation about race and the British monarchy. While some have expressed support for Harry and Meghan, others have criticized their decision to air the family’s dirty laundry in such a public forum.
The Queen released a statement in response to the interview, stating that “the whole family is saddened to learn the full extent to which Harry and Meghan have found the last few years challenging.” The statement also acknowledged that “the issues raised, particularly that of race, are concerning,” adding that “recollections may vary” and that the matter would be addressed privately by the family.
Queen Elizabeth II during a video call
Despite the Queen’s attempt to reconcile the situation, Prince William’s public denial suggests that the rift between the brothers is far from healed. It remains to be seen how the Royal Family will address these issues internally and whether they can move forward from this tumultuous period.
