Prince William saw red after Queen granted Harry a special privilege – but not him

In his memoir “Spare,” Prince Harry reveals a contentious episode with his brother Prince William over the decision to keep his beard for his wedding to Meghan Markle. Harry, who served in the army, had grown accustomed to his beard, associating it with a sense of comfort and normalcy amid his royal duties. However, British royal protocol typically expects male royals, especially those in military attire, to be clean-shaven. William strongly believed that Harry should adhere to this tradition, leading to a significant clash between the brothers.

Harry recounts that the disagreement lasted over a week, during which William repeatedly urged him to shave. Despite the persistent pressure from William, Harry was granted special permission by their grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, to keep his beard for the wedding. This special privilege, sanctioned by the Queen, not only allowed Harry to retain his beard but also highlighted the Queen’s unique authority and understanding of her grandchildren’s personal desires.

William’s frustration with the Queen’s decision was palpable. He felt that Harry was being unfairly favored and that the exception made for him was inappropriate. This episode added to the existing strain between the brothers, marking a point of deepening tension in their relationship. Harry’s account suggests that William’s insistence was not merely about tradition but also about a sense of fairness and adherence to royal standards that he believed should be uniformly applied.

The beard incident was emblematic of broader underlying issues between Harry and William. Their relationship, already marked by various differences and disagreements, was further tested by this conflict. Harry’s decision to speak openly about such personal and private matters in his memoir sheds light on the complexities of their brotherhood and the challenges of living under the scrutiny and expectations of royal life.

In “Spare,” Harry’s narrative reflects his perspective on how personal choices and familial relationships intersect with royal duties and public expectations. The beard incident is not just about facial hair but about autonomy, tradition, and the often-complicated dynamics within the royal family. Harry’s recounting of the episode underscores his desire for individuality and the Queen’s understanding of this, contrasting with William’s adherence to tradition and protocol.

The memoir also touches on the broader context of Harry’s life and his journey towards carving out a new role for himself and his family. His decision to retain his beard, supported by the Queen, can be seen as a metaphor for his broader quest for personal freedom and a break from the rigid expectations of royal life. The episode is one of many that illustrate the personal struggles and decisions that have shaped Harry’s path and his relationship with his family.

Harry’s reflections in “Spare” provide a window into the often-hidden personal dynamics of the royal family, revealing how individual desires and family expectations can clash. The beard incident, while seemingly minor, is a poignant example of the tensions and challenges that come with being a member of the British royal family. It highlights the difficulties of balancing personal identity with public duty, a theme that runs throughout Harry’s memoir.

Ultimately, the incident is a reminder of the human aspects of the royal family, often overshadowed by their public personas and duties. It sheds light on the personal challenges and decisions that shape their lives, offering a more nuanced understanding of their experiences and relationships. Harry’s account in “Spare” invites readers to consider the complexities of royal life beyond the headlines, providing a more intimate glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of the individuals behind the titles.