Prince Harry’s recent interview with Hoda Kotb has been making headlines, particularly in the UK, where the Duke of Sussex’s comments have been met with mixed reactions. While the public’s response has been relatively muted, sources suggest the Royal Family is less than pleased.
Royal commentator Daisy McAndrew spoke to NBC News about the interview, noting that the British tabloids, known for their often-tense relationship with Harry, were quick to criticize the Duke. McAndrew characterized their coverage as “damning,” citing headlines that labeled Harry the “Duke of Woke” and the “Jester of Delusion.” These outlets also scrutinized his comments about the upcoming Jubilee celebrations, interpreting his uncertainty about attending as a “snub” towards Prince Charles.
However, it was Harry’s remarks about Queen Elizabeth that seemingly caused the most significant stir within the Royal Family itself. During the interview, Harry expressed his desire to ensure his grandmother is “protected” and has “the right people around her.” These seemingly innocuous statements have been interpreted as a veiled criticism of the Queen’s immediate circle, including Prince Charles, Prince William, and the courtiers at Buckingham Palace.
Prince Harry with Queen Elizabeth II during Trooping the Colour ceremony
McAndrew revealed that sources close to the Royal Family used phrases like “quiet consternation” to describe their reaction – a typical British understatement that belies deeper feelings. “They were pretty hurt by some of his comments,” McAndrew shared, adding that “it’s more what he didn’t say than what he did say.”
For instance, when Kotb inquired about Harry’s relationship with his father and brother, the Duke simply ignored the question. This conspicuous silence fueled speculation that the relationship remains strained and that Harry may not miss his family in the UK.
McAndrew further analyzed Harry’s comments about the Queen’s well-being, stating that the implicit message was that the Queen is currently surrounded by the “wrong” people and not adequately protected. This implication, whether intentional or not, is likely to be perceived as a personal affront to those closest to the Queen.
Despite the negative reactions to some of Harry’s statements, there was one positive takeaway for the Royal Family. The Duke, while noncommittal, did not rule out attending the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June. This offers a glimmer of hope for reconciliation and a chance for Harry’s daughter, Lilibet, to meet her namesake, the Queen, for the first time.
The Queen, who celebrated her 96th birthday on April 21st, opted for a low-key celebration at Wood Farm in Sandringham, a location with special significance as it was Prince Philip’s favored residence in his later years. The Queen is expected to have a quiet birthday weekend, perhaps joined by Prince William and Kate Middleton, whose country home is nearby.
Queen Elizabeth II with two fell ponies in Windsor
The Queen’s decision to celebrate at Wood Farm, surrounded by her beloved horses and dogs, highlights her need for peace and tranquility amidst the ongoing family tensions and the weight of her royal duties. As the Jubilee celebrations approach, the world will be watching to see if Harry’s potential return will mend bridges or further exacerbate the existing rifts within the House of Windsor.
