The connection between King Charles III and his youngest son, Prince Harry, has weathered many storms—particularly after the Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped away from royal duties in 2020 and moved to California. Since then, a mix of public interviews, a best-selling memoir, and personal revelations have only complicated their father-son dynamic.
But amid the drama, what has King Charles actually said—publicly or symbolically—about his son? Let’s explore the key moments that provide insight into their strained but complex bond.
Silent Diplomacy: The Oprah Interview Fallout
In 2021, when Meghan and Harry’s explosive sit-down with Oprah Winfrey aired, Prince Charles (as he was then titled) chose silence. A reporter asked for his reaction, but Charles simply smiled and continued walking. The Palace’s official response came instead from Queen Elizabeth, who said the family was “saddened” and took the concerns seriously, while subtly noting, “some recollections may vary.”
This silence spoke volumes—a royal refusal to escalate the feud while still maintaining a composed front.
A Plea for Peace: The Aftermath of Prince Philip’s Funeral
In Harry’s memoir Spare, he describes a highly emotional exchange following the funeral of Prince Philip. According to Harry, King Charles stepped between his sons, urging them to put aside their differences. His words were heartfelt and human: “Please, boys, don’t make my final years a misery.”
It was a rare glimpse into the emotional cost of their estrangement—and Charles’s desire for reconciliation, at least on a personal level.
A Balancing Act: The First Speech as Sovereign
When King Charles delivered his first public address after the Queen’s passing in 2022, he made a point of expressing affection for both of his sons. While William and Kate were formally elevated to Prince and Princess of Wales, he didn’t forget the Sussexes.
“I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas,” he said.
Though brief, the acknowledgment suggested a desire to keep the door open—without undermining the institution.
Subtle Omissions: The Christmas Broadcast
Later that same year, in his first Christmas speech as monarch, King Charles struck a different tone. There was no mention of Harry or Meghan. Instead, he praised William and Kate’s public service, particularly their visit to Wales, and highlighted national issues like the cost-of-living crisis.
Observers noted the absence—not as a slight, but as a quiet distancing. The message was clear: public service earns public recognition.
A Moment of Shared Legacy: Reflections on Sandhurst
Despite ongoing tensions, King Charles has not entirely withheld affection for Harry. At a 2023 ceremony at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, he briefly acknowledged both sons as former cadets:
“Speaking as a father of two alumni of this academy, I know they will be full of immense pride in witnessing you on parade.”
The comment may have been subtle, but it recognized Harry’s military legacy—a part of his life Charles has always admired.
No Mention of the Founder: Invictus Games Praise
In early 2025, King Charles visited Imperial College London and met with former serviceman David Henson. They spoke about the Invictus Games—an initiative famously founded by Prince Harry. Yet, in his praise of the event, Charles made no reference to his son.
Whether intentional or not, this omission once again highlighted the King’s strategy of supporting causes without fueling personal controversy.
A Tense Exchange: Health, Distance, and Media Messages
After Prince Harry made public comments about wanting to reconcile and expressed concern for his father’s health during a BBC interview—“I don’t know how long he has left”—King Charles was asked about his condition at a public event.
His swift reply? “I’m great.”
The remark was brief but firm, and many saw it as a subtle pushback against what some interpreted as a tactless remark from Harry.
Final Thoughts: A Royal Relationship in Limbo
King Charles appears to be walking a careful line: upholding royal dignity while occasionally showing paternal warmth. His public comments about Prince Harry are rare, measured, and sometimes pointed in their absence.
Still, in those brief glimpses—whether a reference to shared memories or a nod to their past—we’re reminded that behind the titles and tension lies a family that, like many others, is trying to navigate deep emotional rifts with limited words and high public stakes.