Following his father's cancer diagnosis, Prince Harry has returned to the UK, sparking speculation about the state of the royal family. Royal historian Gareth Russell provides insights into the implications of this visit and the broader dynamics within the monarchy.
In the wake of King Charles III's undisclosed cancer diagnosis, royal watchers have been drawn into a whirlwind of developments. Amidst the heightened attention, Prince Harry has made a return to the UK, setting tongues wagging about the implications for the royal family.
One week after the royal family skipped Prince Harry's event at St. Paul's Cathedral, King Charles and Queen Camilla attended a service at the same historic venue to honor the Order of the British Empire (OBE). This pointed absence at Harry's Invictus Games anniversary celebration had raised eyebrows, fueling rumors of a rift within the family.
However, Charles's recent return to public duties following his own cancer battle has brought a new layer to the situation. Royal expert Christopher Anderson believes that the king's attendance at the St. Paul's service, shortly after snubbing Harry's event, sends a clear message: Harry is no longer a priority for the senior royals.
"If Charles could get dolled up in full regalia and make this event at St Paul's Cathedral, he certainly could have shown up a week earlier to lend support to Harry and Invictus," Anderson asserted. "A private meeting, however brief, would have been a major step in the right direction."
The absence of Prince William at the OBE service, due to an investiture ceremony, further underscores the perceived distance between Harry and his elder brother. Meanwhile, the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, is taking time off from official duties while she undergoes cancer treatment.
The Service of Dedication for the OBE is held every four years, with Charles serving as Sovereign and Camilla as Grand Master. The event was attended by 2,000 recipients of honors from the UK and the Commonwealth. Founded in 1917 by King George V, the OBE recognizes contributions to the UK's war efforts and later expanded to include arts, sciences, charitable work, and public service.
While Charles has resumed public duties, last week's announcement confirmed that he would not be meeting with Harry during his UK trip. A representative for Harry stated that the Duke understood his father's busy schedule and hoped to see him soon.
Following his UK visit, Harry and his wife Meghan Markle traveled to Nigeria, invited by the Chief of Defense Staff. The couple returned to the US on Tuesday, leaving behind a trail of speculation and anticipation.
As the dust settles from this whirlwind of events, the future of the royal family remains uncertain. Whether Harry's return will pave the way for reconciliation or further divisions remains to be seen. The enduring fascination with the monarchy ensures that this family drama will continue to captivate audiences for the foreseeable future.
