Inside Prince William and Prince Harry’s tense reunion – what really happened on secret visit

Estranged brothers Prince William and Prince Harry reunited yesterday for the funeral of their uncle, Lord Robert Fellowes, who passed away last month at the age of 82. This was the first time the brothers were at the same event since King Charles’ coronation last May. While the reunion was solemn, there were clear signs of lingering tensions.

Prince Harry flew in secretly from the US to join Prince William at the service held at St. Mary’s Church in Snettisham. Despite the significance of the occasion, both brothers kept a low profile and arrived separately. Reports indicate that they discreetly attended the service and managed to slip in and out without drawing much attention.

During the service, the brothers sat apart at the back of the church. Observers noted that they did not speak to each other and maintained their distance. One source described how they only noticed the brothers at the end of the service: “I didn’t know they were there. They arrived very discreetly.” Another onlooker mentioned that “William and Harry were both there but we never saw them speak to each other and they were keeping their distance.”

Reverend Dan Tansey, who led the service, shared his brief encounter with the princes. He mentioned, “It was only as I was greeting the congregation on the way out that Prince William was shaking my hand, and then very quickly after, Prince Harry did too.” He added, “It was a surprise but a really pleasant surprise that they had both come. On the way out, they both said thank you for the service, and I thanked them for coming.”

After the service, a reception was held, which the Reverend described as “relaxed and cordial.” However, he observed, “I don’t recollect them speaking to each other, but there were a lot of family members and friends speaking to them.” Royal biographer Ingrid Seward noted, “Harry is close to Robert Fellowes’ widow Jane. She and sister Sarah come to all of Harry’s UK events and were at Archie’s christening.” She added that Harry would have been civil despite the tension, understanding that “a funeral is not the time to settle scores.”

The funeral marked the first occasion since the brothers were last photographed together during a walkabout in Windsor following their grandmother’s death in September 2022. Tensions have been high between the two, especially after Harry’s memoir “Spare” and his Netflix series, where he detailed private altercations and grievances with his brother. Reports suggest that William has been particularly hurt by Harry’s portrayal of his wife, Kate, and their relationship remains strained.

The funeral occurred just days before the 27th anniversary of their mother Princess Diana’s death on August 31, 1997. Harry has frequently referenced his mother’s legacy in his recent public appearances, including his acceptance of the Pat Tillman award at the ESPYs last month for his work with the Invictus Games.

Lord Fellowes, who was laid to rest yesterday, was married to Diana’s older sister, Jane, for over 45 years. He served as a private secretary to the late Queen during a tumultuous period in the 1990s, advising her during the divorces of Charles and Diana and Andrew and Fergie, and the Windsor Castle fire. His role in the palace often put him at odds with Diana, but he fondly remembered her, saying, “She was a very good person. She found it difficult in life to find happiness, and I’m sad for people who have that situation.”

As of now, there is no indication of a reconciliation between William and Harry. Reports suggest that William remains focused on his immediate family and royal duties, with little room for mending ties with his estranged brother. Meanwhile, Harry’s unexpected appearance at the funeral has not signaled any major shift in their strained relationship.