Prince William and Prince Harry: A Growing Divide
The relationship between Prince William and Prince Harry has been strained for years, and according to Princess Diana’s former butler, Paul Burrell, the rift continues to deepen as Prince William prepares for his future role as king. Burrell, author of the new book “The Royal Insider,” claims William has deliberately distanced himself from his younger brother, a separation that appears unlikely to be resolved anytime soon.
A Deliberate Distance
Burrell details his decades-long career serving the British royal household in his memoir, offering a behind-the-scenes look at palace life. He asserts that William’s increasing focus on his future responsibilities necessitates a level of isolation. “I think William has distanced himself from Harry a lot more than people realize,” Burrell told Fox News Digital. “Because William’s path is very different from Harry’s. As he gets nearer and nearer to the throne, which will be in a few years, he has to remain isolated. He has to be in a world that is very tight and protected.”
This need for control stems from the demands of the monarchy. To be a successful monarch, William must maintain a carefully controlled environment, preventing leaks and ensuring stability. This, Burrell argues, leaves little room for the more open and expressive lifestyle Harry has chosen in California.
The Impact of Meghan Markle
The dynamic between the brothers reportedly began to shift when Prince Harry started dating Meghan Markle. While the relationship progressed quickly, with Markle meeting senior royals early on, William reportedly cautioned Harry to “take as much time as you need” before committing to marriage. This advice, according to royal experts, was interpreted by Harry as a lack of support for Markle and a skepticism towards her suitability for royal life.
This perceived lack of support marked a turning point in their relationship, laying the groundwork for the growing distance that followed. The couple’s decision to step back as senior royals in 2020, citing press intrusion and a lack of palace support, further exacerbated the divide.
Public Airing of Grievances
Following their move to California, Harry and Meghan Markle publicly shared their experiences through interviews and documentaries. Harry’s 2023 memoir, “Spare,” proved particularly damaging, revealing intimate details about the royal family and exposing the rivalry between the brothers. These public revelations, Burrell believes, are unforgivable in the eyes of the royal family.
Protecting the Crown
Burrell emphasizes that William’s priority is now protecting the crown and his family. He believes William, like his mother Queen Elizabeth II, understands the paramount importance of preserving the monarchy’s image and stability. “Our dear late queen put the crown first,” Burrell explained. “It was the most important thing in her life… William sees it differently. He puts his family first — his wife and children — then comes the crown.”
He also notes the importance of maintaining a tight inner circle, isolating William, Catherine, and their children to ensure their safety and privacy. This isolation, while necessary, further solidifies the divide between William and Harry.
A Future Without Reconciliation?
Despite Harry’s recent expression of a desire for reconciliation, Burrell remains pessimistic. He believes the damage is too extensive, the words too harsh, and the public airing of private matters too damaging to allow for a meaningful repair of the relationship. He suggests that the two brothers are now living in entirely separate worlds, with little prospect of them ever coming together again.
The situation is also poignant for King Charles, who reportedly longs to have a closer relationship with his grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, who are being raised in California. However, the rift between William and Harry continues to prevent this from happening.
Ultimately, Burrell’s insights paint a picture of a royal family grappling with change, tradition, and the complexities of personal relationships. As Prince William prepares to ascend the throne, the future of his relationship with Prince Harry remains uncertain.
Source: Fox News
