The Prince and Princess of Wales have proved that "actions speak louder than words" as their long-running royal feud with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle enters a decisive new phase, a royal expert has claimed.
Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, recently stepped out for their first joint engagement after the summer break, visiting the home of Everton Football Club in Liverpool to mark World Suicide Prevention Day. The outing drew attention for its poignant cause, but also raised eyebrows across royal circles when Catherine unexpectedly joined her husband for what was originally scheduled as a solo outing for the heir to the throne.
Expert reveals hidden meaning
To casual onlookers, the visit may have seemed like standard official duties carried out by the monarchy's two most popular figures. However, as royal expert Duncan Larcombe revealed, there was a subtle, hidden meaning behind their surprise appearance.
"In reality, this was the regal equivalent of flexing their combined muscles in a show of solidarity that sent a message to the Sussexes," Mr Larcombe wrote for Woman & Home. "William and Kate clearly want to ensure they take centre stage as they brace for Harry and Meghan to make their next move."
With the Duke and Duchess of Sussex now back on British soil, the timing of the Prince and Princess of Wales' united display carries extra significance.
"By joining her husband at the event, Kate was in effect throwing down the gauntlet to her brother- and sister-in-law, now that they have returned to the UK," the expert added. "It is often the subtle signs that count for so much when observing the actions and behaviour of members of the Royal Family. And on this occasion, there is little doubt that the couple were determined to make a statement."
Tensions remain strained
Tensions between the two royal couples have remained strained following years of public estrangement, sparked by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's decision to step back from senior royal duties. Subsequent tell-all interviews, media projects and personal memoirs have deepened the rift, leaving communication between the brothers severely limited.
There are now reports that Prince William's anger towards his estranged brother has reportedly gone, according to insiders. Although William, 45, was initially "angry" with Harry's actions, an insider has revealed that this anger is now "gone". Writing in his Naughty But Nice Substack, Rob Shuter said that this is because the Prince of Wales has stopped "caring".
A source said: "The anger has gone. William spent years being furious. Catherine was deeply hurt [...] But you cannot stay angry forever. Eventually, you stop fighting and simply stop caring."
