Prince William and Prince Harry were once close, bonded by the early loss of their mother, Princess Diana. However, their relationship soured after Harry left the royal family in 2020. While many believe the feud began with his departure and marriage to Meghan Markle, Diana’s former butler, Paul Burrell, suggests it may have started in childhood.
Diana aimed to raise her sons as normally as possible, a value William continues with his own children. Despite their joyful upbringing, Diana’s death left lasting trauma. When Harry stepped back from royal duties, the “Battle of the Brothers” began, and they reportedly haven’t spoken in years.
As William prepares for his future coronation, speculation grows over whether Harry will be invited. A source told The Times in 2024 that the brothers hadn’t spoken in nearly two years and described them as “estranged.” Still, royal expert Christopher Andersen believes William will include Harry, despite the tension.
Others disagree, suggesting Harry may not be invited—or may choose not to attend. Harry’s memoir Spare worsened relations, especially due to criticism of William and other royals.
Burrell, speaking in a Channel 5 documentary, claims their rift may trace back to childhood moments of favoritism, such as a nanny telling William he’d get more food because he would be king. Burrell believes Harry has long felt like the “spare,” fueling a rivalry that started young and continues today.