In a surprising turn of events, Prince Harry reportedly learned about King Charles' upcoming surgery through a public news alert, echoing a similar breakdown in communication seen during Queen Elizabeth's passing in 2022.
On January 17, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles would undergo surgery for an enlarged prostate. Despite efforts to inform senior members of the Royal family, including Prince Harry, it seems the public announcement preceded any private communication, possibly due to the time difference between London and California, where Harry resides with Meghan Markle.
This incident mirrors a past situation when Prince Harry was "the last to know" about Queen Elizabeth's death in 2022. Reports suggest he found out just minutes before the public announcement.
Adding to the tension, a new report reveals that Prince Harry has been stripped of the opportunity to serve as a Counsellor of State during his father's surgery. This designation would have allowed him to undertake royal responsibilities on behalf of King Charles.
The eligibility criteria for Counsellors of State changed in a recent piece of legislation, limiting the role to "working members of the Royal Family." As a result, Prince Harry, along with Prince Andrew, won't be called upon due to their withdrawal from royal duties. Princess Anne and Prince Edward are now named lifelong Counsellors of State for King Charles.
While this incident raises questions about family communication and the impact of media leaks on the royal relationships, there is still anticipation about Prince Harry's planned reunion with his father later this year, as they attempt to mend strained ties.