Prince Harry, who has publicly criticized the Royal Family for years, reportedly now wants his father, King Charles, to support him at the Invictus Games in 2027. Sources say Harry would love for the King to attend either the opening or closing ceremony in Birmingham, a gesture that "would mean the world" to him.
A history of public criticism
Since stepping down as senior royals, Harry and Meghan Markle have not held back in their criticisms of the institution and specific relatives, including Prince William, Princess Catherine, and Queen Camilla. Harry notably used the phrase "wicked stepmother" in reference to Camilla, a label he later claimed was merely a storybook reference.
He also accused Camilla of sacrificing him on her "PR altar," suggesting she briefed the media against him to rehabilitate her own image. A newspaper later reported that a former assistant of Camilla's was responsible for a leak, and that assistant was let go.
In a 2023 CBS 60 Minutes interview promoting his memoir Spare, Harry said of Camilla: "She was the villain. She was the third person in their marriage. She needed to rehabilitate her image."
Criticism of King Charles
Harry's memoir, which became a bestseller, also included criticisms of his father. He wrote that Charles praised Diana for giving him "an heir and a spare," and that after his mother's death, Charles woke him to break the news but did not hug him. Harry also suggested his father prioritized media coverage over his wellbeing.
In a BBC interview last year, Harry hinted at concerns about his father's health, saying: "I would love reconciliation with my family; there's no point in continuing to fight anymore. Life is precious. I don't know how much longer my father has; he won't speak to me."
Seeking reconciliation
Despite the past tensions, Harry has been trying to mend relationships, at least with Charles and Camilla. During a recent visit to the UK with Meghan, Archie, and Lilibet, the Sussexes reportedly spent over an hour with the King and Queen at Highgrove House.
The Invictus Games, which Harry founded, are a "big deal" for him, and he is determined to make the Birmingham games the best yet. The event is scheduled for July 10-17 next year.
One commentator noted Harry's audacity, suggesting he might next ask William and Catherine to host athletes using Meghan's jam. For King Charles, Harry remains "the son who keeps giving… headaches, that is."
