The ongoing rift between Prince Harry and Prince William is particularly painful for William, especially around the anniversary of Princess Diana’s birthday, which fell on July 1. According to royal expert Jennie Bond, William feels incredibly alone during this sensitive time, as Harry is the only person who truly understands what it was like to lose their mother. The past year has been exceptionally challenging for William, who has had to cope with his wife Kate Middleton and father King Charles undergoing cancer treatment while also raising his three young children.
Jennie Bond, a former BBC royal correspondent, highlighted the visible strain on William. She mentioned that William has often looked lonely, burdened by his responsibilities without the support of his brother or mother. Diana, who would have celebrated her 64th birthday, had a profound impact on both her sons, and William strives to continue her legacy through his work and how he raises his children.
Diana’s compassionate nature and dedication to charity work made her a beloved figure. William and Harry have both committed to upholding her legacy, particularly in areas such as mental health and homelessness. In interviews, William has spoken about the enduring pain of losing a parent, emphasizing that his mother’s memory is always with him. He aims to make her proud by the person he has become and through his public service.
In the 2017 ITV documentary “Diana, Our Mother,” William shared his journey of coping with his mother’s death, noting how public mourning added to the complexity of his grief. He described the overwhelming public reaction outside Kensington Palace, where people were deeply emotional, even though they did not know Diana personally. This public display of grief contrasted with his personal loss, making the experience even more challenging.
Despite the strained relationship with Harry, William is determined to instill the values Diana cherished in his own children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Jennie Bond pointed out that Diana would have been deeply involved in her grandchildren’s lives, providing the tender loving care she was known for. Kate Middleton’s mother, Carole, has stepped in to offer support, helping to fill the void left by Diana.
The rift between William and Harry adds another layer of complexity to their already difficult lives. Harry’s departure from royal duties and his move to the United States with Meghan Markle have strained their relationship further. Publicly aired grievances have exacerbated the tension between the brothers, making reconciliation seem distant.
William’s dedication to preserving Diana’s legacy is evident in his public engagements and his approach to parenting. He is committed to carrying forward her work, especially in causes she was passionate about. Jennie Bond remarked that William’s efforts to support issues like homelessness and mental health are direct tributes to his mother’s legacy. His actions reflect his desire to honor her memory and ensure her values are passed down to the next generation.