As Britain's royal family faces a series of health and reputational challenges, Princess of Wales Kate Middleton is reportedly mounting a quiet but determined effort to bridge the widening gulf between Prince Harry and the rest of the royal household, according to individuals familiar with the matter.
Kate, who has herself undergone chemotherapy in the past year, is said to be increasingly concerned that time may be running out for reconciliation, particularly in light of King Charles III's ongoing cancer treatment. "The situation surrounding Charles' declining health underscores the heartbreaking nature of the brothers' estrangement," one person close to the family said.
The rift between Prince Harry and the monarchy deepened after the publication of Spare, Harry's memoir, which included damaging allegations against Prince William and Queen Camilla. The disclosures strained already fragile relations and resulted in Harry's increasingly infrequent visits to the U.K., where he now rarely engages with his brother or father.
"She wants to settle thing before Harry loses the plot and suffers a total meltdown," one source said of Kate's intentions, suggesting that the Princess sees a potential emotional crisis looming for the Duke of Sussex if familial ties remain fractured.
Kate has reportedly made multiple attempts to reconnect with Harry, including placing calls and making overtures during his recent visit to Britain for a court hearing. According to New Idea, she "wouldn't have hesitated to take the opportunity to connect with him," especially while Prince William was in Paris with Prince George attending a UEFA Champions League match.
It is not known whether Prince Harry responded to Kate's offer. He remains based in California with his wife, Meghan Markle, and their two children. While he made a brief trip to the U.K., reports indicate he did not meet with King Charles, who was departing for a long-scheduled engagement in Italy.
The urgency of Kate's efforts reflects a broader concern within the royal household. "Those close to the family share that Kate believes both father and son deserve a chance to reunite," a source said. "At this critical moment, the King undoubtedly needs the comfort and support of both his children more than ever."
Despite her personal efforts, the road to reconciliation is steep. William, according to those familiar with the situation, remains firm in his stance and reportedly refuses to consider direct dialogue with Harry. "He views his brother as a disgrace and has seemingly cut ties with him for the foreseeable future, if not indefinitely," a source said.
Prince Harry's own actions have further complicated attempts at rapprochement. He recently skipped the London wedding of Charles Vivian, a longtime confidant and former close friend. Lord Vivian, who helped coordinate Harry's early charity trips to Africa and included the prince in his 2018 wedding, confirmed that Harry had been invited but did not attend. "I don't know. He has a lot on," Vivian said when asked about the absence.
