What's happened
Prince Harry and Prince William attended their uncle Lord Fellowes' funeral in Norfolk but reportedly did not speak to each other. Their encounter follows Harry's surprise attendance, which was kept secret until shortly before the service. The brothers sat apart during the ceremony, maintaining their distance amidst ongoing tensions.
What's behind the headline?
Tensions Remain High
- The brothers' lack of interaction at the funeral underscores ongoing familial tensions.
- Reports describe the atmosphere as 'frosty,' indicating unresolved issues.
Public Perception
- Their separate attendance may fuel public speculation about their relationship.
- The royal family’s dynamics are under scrutiny, impacting their public image.
Future Implications
- Continued estrangement could affect royal engagements and public appearances.
- The royal family may need to address these tensions to maintain unity in the public eye.
What the papers say
According to The Independent, Harry and William attended the funeral but did not speak, highlighting their ongoing estrangement. Metro reported that Harry's attendance was initially a secret, with locals unaware until shortly before the service. The atmosphere was described as 'frosty,' suggesting that the brothers' relationship remains strained, as noted by former BBC royal correspondent Michael Cole.
How we got here
Lord Fellowes, who was married to Princess Diana's sister, passed away on July 31, 2024. His funeral was held a month later, with Harry flying in from the US to attend. The brothers' relationship has been strained in recent years, marked by public disagreements and personal conflicts.
Go deeper
- What was the atmosphere like at the funeral?
- How has their relationship changed over the years?
- What are the implications for the royal family?
More on these topics
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Robert Fellowes, Baron Fellowes, GCB, GCVO, QSO, PC is a British courtier who was Private Secretary to Queen Elizabeth II from 1990 to 1999, and is also known as a brother-in-law of Diana, Princess of Wales and maternal first cousin of Ronald Ferguson, th
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Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, KCVO ADC is a member of the British royal family. He is the younger son of Charles, Prince of Wales and Diana, Princess of Wales and is sixth in the line of succession to the British throne.