Kate Middleton and Prince William reportedly harbor deep resentment toward Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, a sentiment rooted in a series of highly publicized actions that have strained familial bonds to a breaking point. According to royal expert Charles Rae, this animosity is primarily due to the substantial pain and embarrassment that Harry and Meghan’s actions have caused the royal family.
The pivotal moments contributing to this rift include the explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey in March 2021, where Harry and Meghan made several allegations against the royal family. Meghan’s revelations about her mental health struggles and accusations of racism within the royal family were particularly damaging. This interview, broadcast globally, cast a shadow over the royal family and led to a wave of negative publicity and scrutiny.
Following the Oprah interview, the couple released a Netflix series, “Harry & Meghan,” which further delved into their experiences and grievances with the royal institution. This series provided an even more detailed look at their perspective, reinforcing the narrative of a deeply fractured relationship with the royal family. For William and Kate, this public airing of family issues was seen as a betrayal, widening the chasm between the two couples.
Adding to the strain, Harry’s memoir “Spare,” published in January 2023, included personal anecdotes and criticisms that exacerbated existing tensions. In the memoir, Harry discusses various aspects of his life within the royal family, including his fraught relationship with his brother William. The book’s candid nature and the detailed recounting of private family matters further fueled the resentment.

Rae suggests that the cumulative effect of these actions has created an environment where forgiveness seems unlikely. For William and Kate, the repeated public disclosures and criticisms represent a fundamental breach of trust. The expert posits that any potential reconciliation would require significant effort and contrition from Harry and Meghan. However, given the extent of the perceived damage, there is skepticism about whether William and Kate would be receptive to such efforts.
The tension between the couples is not just a personal issue but also a public one, affecting their public personas and duties. William and Kate, who are preparing for their future roles as King and Queen Consort, are particularly conscious of maintaining the dignity and stability of the monarchy. This context adds another layer of complexity to the situation, as they must balance personal grievances with their public responsibilities.
The strained relationship also highlights broader issues within the royal family regarding communication, support, and the handling of personal grievances. The public nature of the disputes has exposed the inner workings of the royal family, leading to broader discussions about its role and relevance in modern society.
Despite the apparent depth of the rift, some observers hold out hope for reconciliation. They argue that time and private dialogue might heal wounds and allow the brothers, in particular, to rebuild their relationship. However, given the current state of affairs, this remains a distant prospect.