Five years ago today, Prince William and Prince Harry reunited to unveil a statue of their late mother, Princess Diana, at Kensington Palace's Sunken Garden. The event, held on July 1, 2021, marked what would have been Diana's 60th birthday. However, behind the scenes, tensions were high following the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey in March 2021.
William's reluctance to attend
According to a source close to Prince William, he was 'furious' with his brother and 'did not want to go' to the unveiling. The source told the Sunday Times: 'William was still furious. He had taken the view that he'd only give so much. He just didn't want to go there [with Harry].' The interview had left William 'very upset' and 'reeling', with his head 'all over the place'.
The Oprah interview's impact
During the Oprah interview, Harry and Meghan made several allegations about the Royal Family, including that questions were raised about the colour of their son Archie's skin before his birth. Harry said: 'I am part of the system with them, I always have been, but I guess-and I'm very aware of this-my brother can't leave that system, but I have. My father and my brother are trapped.'
Catherine's behind-the-scenes role
Princess Kate was absent from the unveiling but reportedly 'worked her magic out of sight' as a peacemaker. An aide said: '[Catherine] was amazing behind the scenes when Harry came.' Her efforts ensured the ceremony proceeded smoothly without incident.
The statue unveiling ceremony
The statue was commissioned by William and Harry in 2017 to honour their mother's legacy. Attendees included Diana's sisters Lady Sarah McCorquodale and Lady Jane Fellowes, and her brother Earl Spencer. In a joint statement, the brothers said: 'Today, on what would have been our Mother's 60th birthday, we remember her love, strength and character – qualities that made her a force for good around the world, changing countless lives for the better. Every day, we wish she were still with us, and our hope is that this statue will be seen forever as a symbol of her life and her legacy.'
