Gina Heslop
Princess Diana, known as the People’s Princess, was a unique and beloved member of the British royal family. She was not just a famous figure but also a dedicated mother who prioritized the well-being of her children, Prince William and Prince Harry. Unlike other royals, she frequently broke royal traditions to engage in her children’s lives, attending school activities and spending quality time with them.
Unfortunately, Diana’s marriage to Prince Charles was troubled, and her life was constantly under media scrutiny. This relentless attention from the press played a significant role in the tragic car accident that led to her death in August 1997. Allegedly, she was trying to escape the paparazzi when the accident occurred.
Prince William and Prince Harry were deeply aware of how the media affected their mother’s life. This awareness influenced Harry’s view of the royal family. He once contemplated leaving the royal family to avoid putting his future wife and family through the same ordeal. He voiced these sentiments during an appearance on the Armchair Expert podcast, expressing his desire to protect his loved ones from the invasive media.
Both William and Harry frequently reminisce about their mother, celebrating her humor and loving nature. In an interview from 2017, Harry shared fond memories of Diana’s mischievousness, like sneaking sweets in her socks during their football matches. William also expressed gratitude for the love they felt from their mother, which remains strong even after her death.
Diana’s handwritten letters reveal the deep bond between her sons. In one letter to a former steward at Buckingham Palace, Cyril Dickman, she mentioned how William adored his little brother, Harry, showering him with hugs and kisses. She was committed to giving them a normal childhood, even taking them to McDonald’s because they wanted the toys that came with the meals.
Diana’s death was a devastating blow, especially for her young sons, who were only 12 and 15 at the time. Harry recounted the moment he learned of her death in his book, Spare. He described how Prince Charles informed him gently but did not hug him, a moment that left a lasting impact on Harry.
The funeral of Princess Diana was a heartbreaking event, with William and Harry walking behind her casket, an image etched in the memory of many. Harry later criticized the decision to make them walk publicly during such a painful time.
Despite their close bond during their mother’s life, William and Harry’s relationship has become strained in recent years. The tension grew when Harry and his wife Meghan Markle stepped down from their royal duties and moved to the United States.
Their subsequent interviews revealed private details about the royal family, further damaging the brothers’ relationship. The release of Harry’s book, Spare, added to the strain, burning more bridges between them.
Many hope that William and Harry will eventually reconcile and restore the closeness they once shared, honoring their mother’s legacy of love and unity.
