King Charles has completely cut off contact with his son, Prince Harry. According to a new report in People magazine—where Harry also gave an exclusive interview—Charles no longer answers Harry’s calls or responds to his letters. Harry reportedly only learns about his father’s cancer battle through media reports.
This breakdown in communication comes after Harry accused his family of taking away his security as a way to “control” him and “trap” both him and Meghan in the U.K.
Meghan sparked more criticism this week after sharing a message from Ukraine’s vice president that referred to her as “Your Royal Highness”—a title she and Harry had agreed to stop using.
While King Charles has generally overlooked such breaches of the agreement made at the “Sandringham Summit,” Prince William reportedly wants stricter action. According to the Daily Beast, he may consider removing Harry and Meghan’s titles when he becomes king.
People magazine, known for its reliable sources close to Prince Harry and Meghan, reported that the emotional gap between Harry and King Charles has only grown. It confirmed that their last in-person meeting was in February 2024, when Harry made a brief visit after Charles announced his cancer diagnosis. Queen Camilla, whom Harry has publicly criticized, was also present during that meeting.
Since then, there have reportedly been no private conversations between father and son. Harry’s calls and letters go unanswered, and he has no direct knowledge of his father’s condition or prognosis. The report described their estrangement as “profound.”
Prince Harry, 40, has become a regular presence in U.K. courtrooms, but his most personal legal battle is the fight to restore his official, state-funded security. Speaking to People on April 9 after a court appearance in London, Harry said this case matters most to him—both to protect Meghan and their children, Archie, 5, and Lilibet, 3, and possibly to rebuild ties with his father.
Harry believes losing his security in 2020, after stepping back from royal duties, was a deliberate move by the palace to control him and discourage his departure from royal life. He sees the decision as a turning point, deepening the rift with his family. Charles’s advisers are part of RAVEC, the committee denying his protection, and Harry feels the King could intervene but chooses not to.
During each of Harry’s last three visits to the U.K., including his most recent one this month, Charles has been unavailable—despite knowing Harry’s court schedule. Friends believe this distance is intentional, partly to avoid conversations about security. Harry also remains unaware of his father’s current health condition, adding to the strain in their relationship.
A palace source told People, “Nothing has changed,” while another said simply, “They are distant.”
Meanwhile, Prince William—who was heavily criticized in Harry’s memoir Spare, along with his wife Kate—has also cut ties. According to the Daily Beast, William’s friends say he feels deeply betrayed by Harry and wants nothing to do with him.
