Robert Hardman, author and royal biographer, offered a poignant reflection on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's departure from the British monarchy, suggesting a missed opportunity for what could have been a harmonious 'Carolean Era' under King Charles III. Hardman's insights paint a picture of a royal family grappling with change, division, and the challenges of modernity.
According to Hardman, author of "Charles III: New King. New Court. The Inside Story," the Duke and Duchess of Sussex had the potential to thrive in King Charles III's reign. However, their decision to step back from royal duties has led to a division within the royal supporters and a significant shift in the dynamics of the monarchy. "The whole kind of royal machine, if you like, is a team effort and I just think it's very sad because Harry and Meghan had such potential," said Hardman in an interview with GB News.
The biographer, known for his in-depth exploration of royal affairs, remarked on Prince Harry's recent expressions of frustration, as documented in his book "Spare." Harry's narrative of feeling isolated and unheard within the royal framework is a stark contrast to the unity and teamwork that Hardman describes as fundamental to the royal institution. "Harry writes in his book Spare how no one will return his calls and he can't get through to anyone, and it's just all about me, me, me," Hardman noted, pointing to a sense of alienation felt by the prince.
This sense of division extends beyond Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Hardman touched on the broader implications of their departure, which he sees as a loss for the Commonwealth and the King's vision for a diverse and modern monarchy. "That's very much what the King had in mind for the future, that there would be this sort of twin track - you'd have William and Catherine, and you'd also have Harry and Meghan," Hardman explained.
Despite the acrimony and public scrutiny surrounding the Sussexes' split from royal duties, Hardman holds out hope for reconciliation. He views the royal family first and foremost as a family unit, capable of healing and rapprochement. "Fundamentally, I think everyone's so sad; I think they're beyond being angry. Everyone would like to see some sort of rapprochement," he said.
Hardman also commented on the current state of the royal family, particularly in light of the Princess of Wales being out of commission until possibly April. He sees this as a testament to the adaptability of the royal institution, especially in quieter times of the year. "I just think it's a reminder that we do have a slimmed down Royal Family now, but they will adapt, they'll make it work, and it is a quiet Royal time of year," he remarked.
The departure of Harry and Meghan from active royal duties has undoubtedly left a void in the monarchy, one that resonates with both the public and within the palace walls. As King Charles III navigates his new reign, the absence of the Sussexes presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the monarchy to redefine itself in an ever-evolving world. Whether a path to reconciliation and unity exists remains to be seen, but the conversation around Harry and Meghan's role in the royal family continues to be a topic of significant interest and debate.
