Queen Elizabeth II wore many hats. She will always be known for her iconic style and controversial choices as a monarch.She was not only the longest ruling monarch of the United Kingdom but a very proud grandmother.Like any other family, the British royal family has rifts and disagreements. The controversy communicated in Prince Harry's famous interview with Oprah left the Queen with complex feelings.
Queen Elizabeth Wasn't Feeling Great After Prince Harry's Interview
After the interview on March 7, 2021, Buckingham Palace issued a formal reply on behalf of the Queen. Officials close to the Queen assert that the Queen did feel "anxiety" regarding the interview as she had no idea or control over the questions Oprah could ask or the answers the couple would give. Queen Elizabeth did not mind giving an interview or two according to her own terms. However, it is clear that the Queen was in complete control, showing her wit and humor.
While one can never know anyone's deepest personal thoughts, the communication from Buckingham Palace indicates the Queen was less than amused regarding the interview. It is rather notable that the Queen allowed the communication to be made on her behalf. The bombshell interview made her sad is most likely an understatement. The monarch is known to be rather loving and doting towards her children and great-grandchildren. Onlookers could be alleged that the Queen could show more affection towards them than her children.
There is still a storm of speculation surrounding opinions of the Queen's perception of Prince Harry and Meghan's treatment during their time as working royals.
The world's reaction to the statement indicated that this response was paltry. One Twitter replied, "Um...that's it?" Another Tweeter documented that Prince Harry served in the military for ten years, serving two tours during wartime. The Prince was determined to do service beyond ceremonial roles most members of the Royal Family take. Many people view his the stripping of his titles and positions unfair and clearly an attempt to bully the couple further.
Prince Harry goes on to say that he has "compassion" for his father and older brother because they do not have the abil to leave their positions. Prince Harry also confirmed that those that made those comments regarding his son's skin color did not come from his immediate biological family. This fact allows onlookers to spectate if it was not the Queen herself nor her Consort Philip, his father or brother, who would be allowed to treat them so poorly?
Piers Morgan famously ranted about not believing a "word" Harry and Meghan said regarding her state of mind during her service as a royal family member or her bullying.
The Interview Between Prince Harry And Oprah Went Against The Grain
Meghan and Prince Harry detailed a lot of disturbing treatment surrounding her ethnicity. Meghan identifies as biracial. The Duchess describes how they were not asked for a photograph after the birth of their son per tradition. She explains that "The Firm" asked how "dark" Archie would be. Officials told her that the child would not have any royal titles. Prince Harry also had to pay for his wife and child's security. Something usually provided by Buckingham Palace.
Most significantly, the couple never asked to step down from their official roles. Instead, they merely asked for their positions to be reduced like many other members of the Royal Family.
Ultimately, the fallout was evident. Prince Harry described a significant amount of distance between himself and Prince William. His father, the then Prince Charles, the now King Charles III, stopped taking his phone calls. The Queen insisted that her son, Charles, make amends with Prince Harry as soon as possible. Like any Grandmother, she did not want her grandchildren estranged from her family.
The reunion between the Queen, Prince Harry, and Meghan before her passing should be noted by onlookers.The Queen got to meet little Archie. Buckingham Palace insiders anonymously reported that the tiny reunion with added light to her eyes and made her day. Archie definitely brightened the Queen's mood. The Queen was so happy she met her great-grandson and showered him with gifts.
The Aftermath Following Queen Elizabeth's Passing
The British Royal grandchildren and great-grandchildren will have to continue without their doting matriarch. She had many descendants with her husband, Philip, the Prince of Greece. With the death of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8, 2022, her eldest son became King Charles III. Prime Minister Truss stated that the Queen provided the stability that everyone needed. She likely held her family together, also. Prince Harry and Prince William were seen recently together, sharing warm smiles.
Meghan and Harry made a few public appearances in front of the British media since the Queen's passing.
At this time, it is unclear if Prince William and Prince Harry have healed their rift. Prince William denied that the family was the least bit racist. However, there is significant speculation regarding King Charles' relationship with Prince Harry. In addition, Brits and global spectators all wonder about the Queen's death's impact on the Windsor men.
While everyone knew about Queen Elizabeth's wishes for the pair to reconcile, it is still unclear if they have. The death of any family's matriarch is difficult and trying. Like any family with a loving matriarch, her loss leaves a void. Yet, so often, especially in families, the loss of a loved one brings people together. Let's hope her family fulfills the Queen's wishes and renew their bonds.