Prince Harry’s recent trip to see King Charles III, following the announcement of his cancer diagnosis, sparked speculation of a potential family reconciliation. However, the longstanding issues within the royal family might need more time to be fully addresse
Prince Harry has made a swift return to the UK to stand by King Charles III during a challenging time after the monarch’s unexpected cancer diagnosis was revealed. The Royal Family announced the King’s health issues on February 5, 2024.
Prince Harry in London in 2023 | Source: Getty Images
The relationship between Harry and his father has always been complex and some of the rift has unfolded in public. In his memoir, “Spare,” the Duke of Sussex recounts a comment his father allegedly made after his birth: “Wonderful! Now you’ve given me an heir and a spare—my work is done,” he said to Diana.
Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Diana, Princess of Wales at the Kensington Palace with their sons Prince William and Prince Harry on December 01, 1986 | Source: Getty Image
From a young age, Harry felt that his father, being an older man, contributed to their strained relationship. He was more connected to his playful mother but never had the same interaction with King Charles III.
Charles Prince of Wales, Prince William, and Prince Harry during Diana, Princess of Wales’ funeral on September 06, 1997 at Westminster Abbey, London | Source: Getty Images
However, in an effort to mend the relationship, the King wanted to show his love and appreciation for his son and decided to help him with choosing an orchestra for his wedding in 2018. But the father-son relationship experienced more strain after Harry and Markle announced that they would step down from the senior royal duties in 2020, and seek to build a more independent life.
Harry embarked on an 11-hour journey from California, where he resides with his wife, Meghan Markle, and their children, Archie and Lilibet, and arrived at Clarence House in central London to be with his father.
Prince Harry with his bride Meghan Markle during their wedding on May 19, 2018 in Windsor, England | Source: Getty Images
Harry was spotted in the back of a Range Rover, part of a large convoy, as he made his way through the gates of Clarence House. King Charles III, 75, is currently recuperating from treatment for an unspecified type of cancer.
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