Heartbreaking way Prince Harry found out about his Prince Philip’s death

In his memoir “Spare,” Prince Harry recounts the heartbreaking moment he discovered the death of his grandfather, Prince Philip. Harry, who resides in California with his wife Meghan Markle and their children, was awakened early one morning to find his phone inundated with missed calls. There were 32 notifications, an alarming number that immediately filled him with dread. As he began returning calls, he spoke with the Queen, who delivered the devastating news that Prince Philip had passed away.

This revelation not only brought immense personal sorrow but also highlighted the physical and emotional distance that had grown between Harry and the rest of the royal family. At the time of Prince Philip’s passing, Harry and Meghan had been living in the United States for over a year, having stepped back from their royal duties in early 2020. Their decision to leave the UK was driven by a desire for a more peaceful life away from the intense scrutiny and pressures of royal life.

Harry’s immediate concern upon hearing the news was how to return to the UK to be with his family and pay his respects. This would be his first trip back to Britain since their departure, a moment fraught with tension and the potential for difficult family interactions. The strained relationships and unresolved conflicts with his brother, Prince William, and his father, King Charles III, added a layer of complexity to an already challenging situation.

In the days leading up to Prince Philip’s funeral, Harry faced the difficult task of preparing to reenter a world he had sought to distance himself from. The ceremonial aspects of the funeral, coupled with the media attention, promised to be emotionally taxing. Despite these challenges, Harry felt it was important to honor his grandfather’s memory and support his family during their time of grief.

The memoir delves into the broader implications of Harry and Meghan’s decision to step back from royal duties, detailing the personal and public ramifications. Harry reflects on the difficulties they faced within the royal institution, including issues of mental health, media intrusion, and the lack of support from within the palace. These factors played a significant role in their decision to seek a new life in the United States, prioritizing their family’s well-being over traditional royal responsibilities.

Prince Philip’s death also prompted Harry to reflect on his relationships with other family members. He expressed a desire to improve relations with his father, King Charles III, and foster a closer bond between his children and their grandfather. Harry recognized that physical distance had made these relationships more challenging to maintain, and he considered the possibility of purchasing a residence in the UK to facilitate more frequent visits.

The memoir also sheds light on King Charles’s hopes for a more involved relationship with his grandchildren, Archie and Lilibet. Despite the geographical distance, Charles has made efforts to stay connected, including sending thoughtful gifts and cards to mark significant occasions like birthdays. These gestures reflect a desire to bridge the gap and maintain a family connection despite the complexities and tensions that have arisen over the past few years.

Ultimately, Harry’s account in “Spare” provides a poignant look at the personal struggles and family dynamics that have shaped his life. The death of Prince Philip served as a catalyst for deeper reflection on family bonds, the challenges of living under constant public scrutiny, and the ongoing efforts to find a balance between personal happiness and familial duty. Harry’s journey, marked by both sorrow and resilience, underscores the complexities of navigating life as a member of the British royal family in the modern era.