Royal experts see little immediate progress in the brothers’ relationship but believe their longstanding bond may endure.
The relationship between Prince Harry and Prince William is reportedly at an increasingly difficult stage, with the brothers’ long-running rift showing little sign of easing.
Sources have claimed that the Prince of Wales has hardened his position towards his younger brother, suggesting that tensions have continued to grow in recent years.
According to reports, William is “doubling down” on his stance and has reached a point where even mentioning Harry in his presence could prompt a strong reaction.
Despite the apparent deterioration in their relationship, some royal experts believe there could still be hope for the brothers to maintain a degree of civility, particularly when they appear together in public.
Royal expert sees signs of lingering bond
Body language expert Judi James has pointed to previous public encounters between the two brothers as evidence that their longstanding bond may still influence their behaviour.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, James said Harry and William had shared unique experiences throughout their lives and developed an exceptionally strong connection.
She suggested that, despite the bitterness between them, Harry may still retain a subconscious sense of respect for William, particularly because of his position as the Prince of Wales and heir to the throne.
James highlighted the walkabout following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, when Harry and Meghan joined William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, outside Windsor Castle in an unexpected public appearance.
According to James, Harry appeared to instinctively allow William and Catherine to take precedence during the walkabout, which she interpreted as a sign that some elements of their former relationship may remain intact.
She argued that Harry’s actions demonstrated that he could still naturally revert to a supportive role around his older brother when they were together publicly.
James also suggested that Harry’s behaviour reflected the deeply ingrained protocols and teamwork associated with the brothers’ upbringing within the Royal Family.
Harry and William reconciliation remains uncertain
The assessment comes amid continued speculation over whether the brothers could eventually repair their relationship.
Their differences have been widely documented since Harry and Meghan stepped back from royal duties and subsequently made a series of public revelations about their experiences within the Royal Family.
The brothers have maintained separate public lives, while reports about their strained relationship have continued to fuel speculation over whether they could eventually rebuild their relationship.
Although a full reconciliation remains uncertain, James believes their shared history means the connection between Harry and William may not have disappeared completely.
Their previous public interactions suggest that, despite their reported differences, the brothers may still be capable of maintaining a degree of respect and civility when circumstances bring them together.