The Prince and Princess of Wales kept to their own schedule in Wales while King Charles and Prince Harry reunited in London.
The Duke of Sussex met with his father for the first time in 19 months, but Prince William and Princess Kate were far away, carrying out engagements in Cardiff.
A Separate Path from Harry
While Harry sat down for a brief “private tea” with King Charles, William and Kate focused on royal duties in Wales, attending a visit to Cardiff’s Principality Stadium, where a new mental health hub is being built. The couple have so far avoided any meetings with Harry during his time in the UK, where he has been attending charity-related events.
Instead, the Prince and Princess of Wales have appeared together at joint engagements, with William also stepping out for solo appearances. This comes after tensions flared between William and Meghan Markle over the absence of Princess Diana’s diamonds, an incident that reportedly left the Prince of Wales “disturbed” and upset.
Brothers on Different Sides
Although Harry’s meeting with King Charles was significant as their first in nearly two years, it was not the most recent time the brothers have been in the same place. William and Harry both attended the funeral of their uncle, Lord Robert Fellowes, last August. However, they remained apart during the service, with no visible interaction.
Their relationship has continued to deteriorate since Harry and Meghan stepped back from royal life in 2020. The couple have since spoken openly in interviews, their Netflix docuseries, and Harry’s 2023 memoir, sharing their experiences of alleged racism toward Meghan and difficult treatment within the Palace.
Royal watchers suggest that William and Kate’s active presence in public may be part of a broader strategy. One PR expert noted the couple could be maintaining a strong public schedule both as part of a “PR campaign” and due to concerns that “Harry could outshine them” during his brief visit back to the UK.