King Charles Faces Dilemma: Should He Answer Prince Harry's Calls During Cancer Fight?

Ah, the modern monarchy. It's a tale as old as time, yet always seems to come with a new twist, much like an old sitcom trying to keep viewers engaged with fresh gags. Enter Robert Hardman, the chronicler of royal drama, with his latest book, The Making of a King: King Charles III and the Modern Monarchy. And what’s capturing our attention? The ongoing saga of King Charles III and his elusive relationship with none other than his son, Prince Harry.

Picture this: A father and son, separated not just by distance, but by a chasm wide enough to fit an entire tabloid scandal in between. According to Hardman, it seems King Charles has been advised to let those heartfelt phone calls and letters from Harry languish unanswered. Why? Well, let’s just say someone thinks the king’s stress levels are already at an all-time high—perhaps they don’t want him to worry about the daunting task of parenting from afar, or maybe they're just trying to keep his hairline intact.

When the world asks, “Why doesn’t he see Harry when he’s in town?” Hardman’s not-so-subtle irony kicks in. “For goodness' sake,” he quips, “let’s not add 'family therapy' to the list of royal duties.” There’s a sense, he states with the flair of a seasoned observer, that this is simply not the moment for heart-to-heart talks — especially considering the painful matter of King Charles’ recent health diagnosis, which, let’s face it, is enough to make anyone want to avoid familial obligations.

Despite Harry’s pleas for reconciliation — aired on television, illuminated in his recent memoir, and pretty much broadcasted from every digital rooftop — the royal castle remains a fortress of silence. It’s the kind of silence that, according to a friend, has transitioned from mild irritation to “complete silence.” Only a royal could manage to make dodging calls sound so intricately tragic.

As if the plot couldn't twist tighter, Harry’s struggle for adequate security during his visits to the U.K. has been reported as a significant barrier to the father-son relationship. After stepping back from royal duties—nothing drama-free about that move—Harry lost his taxpayer-funded protection. So now he’s stuck in a royal version of “Guess Where I’ll Stay Tonight?” which has included everything from a hotel to the gracious invitation from his father that he politely declined due to the lack of security. It seems staying in a royal residence would mean cozying up with public audiences, and that—dear readers—is a recipe for disaster.

Imagine Harry, the prince who once enjoyed evening strolls in gilded halls, now staying at Holiday Inn because the royal welcome lacked a bouncer. He was even willing to pay for protection himself – a true case of “please dad, I just need a bit of security!” It’s hard to believe that a simple ask for safety has transformed into a wall of tension between two men who are literally and figuratively on opposite sides of the royal court.

Yet, still, King Charles yearns to see his grandchildren, Archie and Lilibet—a sentiment any grandparent can empathize with. Hardman notes that since ascending to the throne, one might assume Charles would be somewhat busy, perhaps trying to figure out why anyone would want to see him on a Tuesday. Ironically, he finds himself enjoying more chances to engage with family as his schedule loosens its royal grip, opening up opportunities to connect amidst the duties.

Of course, at the heart of this saga lies the ever-faithful Queen Camilla, steadfastly supporting her husband through the rollercoaster of royal family drama. It must be said, one could only hope that the days of “Your Majesty” are temporarily set aside on family weekends, allowing for a more relaxed atmosphere where hugs aren’t dictated by protocol.

Yet, the tension persists. The memories of Harry’s departure from royal life still echo, holding the door shut against forgiveness. As intricate as a well-plotted British drama, it invites sympathy while simultaneously leaving us wondering about the next reveal in this familial thriller. Will King Charles and Prince Harry find their way back to one another? Or will they continue to exchange pleasantries through the media, like two actors playing parts in a long-running, emotionally charged sitcom? Tune in next week for what promises to be another episode of the curious case of royal relationships!