During his recent trip to South Africa, Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, made a subtle yet poignant gesture that revealed his deep love and respect for his father, King Charles III.
Prince Harry, while recently visiting New York City for various charitable engagements in late September, seemed to honor both his late mother, Princess Diana, and his father, King Charles, through his actions. While much of his visit was dedicated to causes close to Diana’s heart, a subtle tribute to his father was also present, according to royal insiders.
Grant Harrold, a former royal butler, has noted the significance of Prince Harry's actions. Harrold explained that Harry’s involvement in charitable causes during the trip was not only in honor of his mother, who was an advocate for numerous charities but also in quiet support of his father, who has been battling cancer. In an exclusive interview with InTouch, Harrold remarked, “Princess Diana was a staunch supporter of many charitable causes, and Harry has clearly been inspired by her work. During this trip, he reflected on his mother’s legacy, and it was a clear tribute to her life and values.”
However, Harrold also pointed out that Prince Harry’s focus on environmental causes during his visit may have been a deliberate nod to King Charles. “Prince Harry spoke passionately about climate change, a cause that his father has long championed. It’s hard to miss the fact that through this, he was also honoring King Charles,” said Harrold.
Despite the complexities of his relationship with the royal family since stepping back from royal duties in 2020 and relocating to the United States with his wife, Meghan Markle, Harrold emphasized that Prince Harry still holds his father in high regard. "Harry loves and respects Charles deeply," Harrold shared, reflecting on his time serving the royal family from 2004 to 2011. "I believe this trip was also Harry’s way of showing his support for his father, especially considering Charles' recent health struggles. Perhaps Harry hopes that his father will recognize this gesture and extend his own support in return."
The last known meeting between Prince Harry and King Charles took place in February, following the King's diagnosis of a serious form of cancer. This gesture, as interpreted by many royal watchers, may be Harry’s way of offering quiet support and maintaining a connection with his father during this challenging time.
By intertwining his mother’s charitable legacy with his father’s environmental advocacy, Prince Harry seems to be building a bridge of love and respect toward King Charles, even across the geographical and emotional distances between them.
