The identity of the Duke of Sussex's biological father has long intrigued the public since his emergence as a prominent figure in the British royal family.
One of the enduring points of interest has been his distinctive red hair, which has sparked speculation about his lineage. Much of the speculation revolves around Princess Diana and her alleged relationship with James Hewitt, a British army officer and instructor. Reports vary, suggesting their involvement could have started as early as 1986, though some theories propose an earlier timeline. This uncertainty has fueled widespread conjecture about the Duke's parentage, with suggestions of a possible extramarital affair.
James Hewitt has consistently denied any connection to the Duke, vehemently asserting that he had no relationship with Princess Diana around the time of the Duke's birth. Diana herself addressed these rumors, attributing her son's red hair to a familial trait. Despite her clarifications, public interest in the matter has persisted. Online comparisons between photographs of Hewitt and the Duke have perpetuated a narrative adding layers of intrigue and controversy to the ongoing debate.
In 2003, reports surfaced that a British tabloid had conducted DNA testing on the Duke to settle questions about his paternity. However, the results were inconclusive, leaving the issue unresolved. Speculation about DNA testing within the royal family has lingered since the mid-1990s, hinting at internal uncertainties about lineage that were shielded from the Duke by Princess Diana. She reportedly kept him unaware of the true reasons behind certain medical tests conducted during his youth.
Recent developments indicate that the Duchess of Sussex has encouraged her husband to delve deeper into his family history. This journey has reignited public and media interest as the couple explores their genealogies. Their personal exploration intersects with broader historical inquiries, inviting ongoing speculation and commentary.
