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Prince Harry was deeply shocked and hurt by his father’s blunt refusal to see him, according to a royal expert. The 39-year-old Duke of Sussex was in London last week for a special event commemorating the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games but was snubbed by King Charles, who had no time to meet him.
This public rejection left Harry reeling from the pain, highlighting the strained relationship between father and son. Amid swirling rumors of a possible reunion between Harry and Charles, the Duke took the unexpected step of releasing a statement confirming that he would not be meeting with his father during his brief visit.
This announcement came just months after the pair had reconciled following Charles’s cancer diagnosis, adding another layer of complexity to their relationship. “In response to the many inquiries and continued speculation on whether or not the duke will meet with his father while in the UK this week, it unfortunately will not be possible due to His Majesty’s full program,” a spokesperson for Harry shared.
“The duke, of course, understands his father’s diary commitments and various other priorities and hopes to see him soon.” Royal expert and author Tom Quinn told The Mirror Harry is devastated over his father’s public rejection, especially as the Duke’s trip to London was expected to see the father and son reunite. “He was deeply shocked at his father’s blunt refusal to see him even for a moment,” he explained.
“This time the rejection was particularly painful because it was so public – Harry may have issued a statement saying he completely understood why his father didn’t have time to see him, but everyone knows the real reason had nothing to do with busy schedules.”
During his three-day stay in London, Harry was reportedly forced to stay in a hotel after being refused accommodation at one of the Royal Family’s residences. According to The Times, Harry had put in a request to see his father well in advance of his visit, adhering to royal protocols that require 28 days’ notice.
However, Buckingham Palace sources claimed that Harry changed his mind about staying in one of the royal palaces and did not formally request a meeting with his father. The Duke traveled to London without his wife Meghan Markle or their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
This solo trip underscores the ongoing tension and unresolved issues within the royal family. Harry’s public rejection by his father during such a significant event for the Invictus Games, an initiative he is deeply passionate about, adds to the emotional strain he has been experiencing.
The strained relationship between Harry and Charles has been a subject of public interest and speculation. The refusal to meet highlights the challenges the family faces in mending their bond. The public nature of the rejection has only intensified the scrutiny and pressure on both Harry and the royal family as they navigate their complex dynamics.
Despite the personal pain, Harry remains committed to his causes and responsibilities. His dedication to the Invictus Games and other philanthropic endeavors showcases his resilience and determination to make a positive impact. However, the emotional toll of the strained relationship with his father is evident, and the path to reconciliation remains uncertain.
