Exclusive Insider Insights: The Royal Family's Stance on Future Tell-All Books Following Harry's 'Spare'
Prince Harry’s memoir, ‘Spare,’ caused further strain between him and the royal family, leading to their reluctance for another family member to write a book
The royal family is closely monitoring The King: The Life of King Charles III—acknowledging that "in the same vein, they do not wish to experience marginalization. They do not want to feel overshadowed."
William, 41, and his spouse, Princess Kate, with whom he has George, 10, Charlotte, 8, and Louis, 5, fully understand the consequences when the so-called "spare" sibling perceives neglect.
Prince Harry. FACUNDO ARRIZABALAGA/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock
"The royal family is opposed to the idea of another child writing a book like Spare," Andersen informed Us. "It is evident that Harry experienced significant feelings of hurt due to constantly living in his brother's shadow. I believe they are aware of this."
Additionally, the author noted that the "family dynamics" between George and his younger siblings are notably healthier compared to the typical dynamics within the royal family.
William and Harry, both 38, have experienced their fair share of highs and lows as siblings. However, their relationship reached a low point when Harry published his memoir, Spare, in 2023. In this book, he passionately describes William as his "archnemesis" and opens up about the emotional burden of being constantly labeled the "spare" in the royal family, a role that often required him to be nothing more than a backup or a distraction.
"I was constantly reminded that my purpose was to serve as a backup, a distraction, or even just a spare part if needed. Whether it was a kidney, a blood transfusion, or a speck of bone marrow, this was made abundantly clear to me from the very beginning of my life's journey," Harry wrote, reflecting on his feelings.
Harry, who relinquished his senior royal position in 2020, asserted that he and William had engaged in numerous physical altercations over the course of their lives. Additionally, Harry accused William of assaulting him in 2019 due to his marriage to Meghan Markle. According to Harry, William referred to Meghan as "difficult" and "rude" while visiting their residence, leading to William forcefully grabbing him and causing his necklace to break before ultimately knocking him to the ground.
William has chosen to remain silent regarding his brother's statements, but a reliable source informed Us that William considers Harry's allegations to be delusional and views them as the ultimate act of betrayal. The trust that once existed between the two brothers has been irreparably shattered.
During the subsequent months, Andersen disclosed that there has been little progress in the relationship between King Charles III and the late Princess Diana's sons. Andersen shared his observation with Us on Monday, noting that neither side seems willing to extend an olive branch. Instead, it appears as though both parties have accepted and resigned themselves to this unfortunate situation.
Regarding William's children, their bond seems to be grounded in affection. "George is fortunate to have parents who adore him and his siblings," Andersen revealed, acknowledging that William and Harry had a difficult upbringing during their own childhood.
At the age of 74, Charles and Diana became the center of attention in 1992 when they separated due to Charles' relationship with Queen Camilla, who is now the queen consort. After their divorce was officially concluded in 1996, Diana tragically lost her life in a car accident in Paris in August 1997 at the age of 36.
“The pressures on William and Harry intensified greatly due to the dynamics within their family life,” Andersen reflected. “The challenging circumstances of Diana's profound unhappiness and Charles being infatuated with another person were undoubtedly difficult for them.”
George, Charlotte, and Louis do not face the same hardships, but they are the first generation of royals to come of age in the era of social media.
"Their privacy will face even more infringements, compelling William and Kate to carefully navigate the delicate balance of safeguarding their children's privacy," Andersen explained. "They strive to ensure that their children have as normal a childhood as possible, while also fulfilling the expectations of the British people and the world, which demand their continuous presence."
