Prince William and Kate Middleton won’t be meeting Prince Harry during his upcoming visit to the U.K. next week. Friends of the couple shared with The Daily Beast that they aim to avoid adding stress to Kate, who is currently recovering from cancer.
“Both sides understand each other’s position clearly now,” said one friend.
“William and Catherine felt completely betrayed by Harry’s memoir (Spare).
They don’t speak to Harry and Meghan, and they are certainly not about to start when Catherine is at her most vulnerable.”
While Harry’s camp hasn’t indicated whether he seeks a meeting, they’ve mentioned that he privately reached out to Kate after her cancer diagnosis.
Another friend, who was once close to both brothers but has lost contact with Harry since he left the U.K., downplayed any suggestion of a breakthrough in relations.
“[Harry is] just another person who sold his story to the papers. A ‘get well soon’ message is neither here nor there.”
Official palace sources didn’t comment on potential family meetings with Harry, but they likely knew of his upcoming trip as he’s required to give 28 days’ notice for U.K. trips.
His return is for a church service marking the Invictus Games’ 10th anniversary, an event he established. He’ll then travel to Nigeria for another Invictus event, where he’ll meet Meghan, who isn’t joining him in the U.K.
Spokespeople for King Charles didn’t comment on his plans, but a meeting with his father is more probable than one with William and Kate.
However, Harry’s relationship with Queen Camilla remains strained, complicating any extended stay with Charles.
Harry’s memoir contains criticisms of Camilla, which have hurt her and Charles deeply. There’s also concern that Harry may publicize private meetings with his family, as seen in previous instances.
