Prince Harry may have returned to the United Kingdom with hopes of paying a solemn tribute to his late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, but royal experts warn that his presence has stirred fresh criticism rather than healing old wounds.
The Duke of Sussex arrived in Britain on the third anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s death, where he visited her grave at St George’s Chapel in Windsor for a private moment of reflection. For many, this was seen as a respectful gesture, but according to one commentator, the public will not forget the pain of the monarch’s final year.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams spoke to Fox News Digital and issued a blunt reminder that Harry and Meghan Markle’s actions created enormous strain on Queen Elizabeth during her last months. He claimed their decisions left a lasting scar on her final year as monarch.
Fitzwilliams explained, “Since he has arrived in Britain on the third anniversary of the Queen’s death, it is only fitting that Harry pays his private respects at her grave at St George’s Chapel in Windsor.” However, he did not stop there.
He added a warning that “it will not be forgotten that he and Meghan made Queen Elizabeth’s last year’s extremely difficult.” His comments underline how much resentment still lingers within royal circles and the wider public regarding the Sussexes’ choices since their royal exit.
This visit has inevitably brought comparisons to the actions of Prince William and Princess Kate, who also marked the solemn anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing. The Prince and Princess of Wales traveled to the Women’s Institute in Sunningdale, where they shared stories and memories with members who had known the late monarch for decades.
According to Fitzwilliams, William and Kate’s approach provided a clear contrast. “William and Catherine have paid a personal tribute to the Queen today with a visit to the Women’s Institute,” he said, stressing that their presence reinforced their image as the steady future of the monarchy.
The commentator also addressed speculation about whether Prince Harry might reunite with his brother during his stay in the UK. The chances appear slim, with reports suggesting the brothers have not spoken directly in nearly three years. Fitzwilliams described William’s estranged brother as “errant” and doubted that a meeting would take place.
“It seems certain that William will not be seeing his errant brother during his four-day visit this week,” he said firmly, making clear that the rift between the siblings remains unresolved despite the solemn occasion.
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Attention also turned to the possibility of Prince Harry meeting with King Charles during his brief trip. Speculation had swirled that a father-son reunion might occur, especially given the king’s ongoing health concerns. Yet Fitzwilliams dismissed the likelihood, citing a breakdown of trust within the royal family.
He remarked, “There has been a good deal of speculation about whether King Charles will see Prince Harry. It does seem unlikely as the royal family, understandably, do not trust the Sussexes.” His words reflect the continuing skepticism toward the couple’s intentions, particularly after years of public criticism aimed at the institution.
For Prince Harry, this week was meant to be a chance to show respect for his grandmother’s memory and highlight his ongoing charitable work. But instead, the shadow of the past continues to haunt him. Every step he takes on British soil reignites debates about his choices and his role within the monarchy’s most turbulent decade.
Even as Harry engages with children, charities, and communities in the UK, the narrative is constantly pulled back to the fracture with his family. His gesture at Queen Elizabeth’s grave might have been heartfelt, yet it only emphasized how far he stands from reconciliation with his father and brother.
The public and experts alike seem divided. Supporters praise Harry’s determination to honor the late queen and continue his charity work. Critics, however, view his presence as a reminder of controversies that overshadowed her last years.
What remains undeniable is that Prince Harry’s every move in the UK attracts scrutiny. Whether he is donating millions to good causes or attending solemn anniversaries, the focus inevitably shifts back to the rift within the royal family and the legacy of Queen Elizabeth’s final days.
