Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were reportedly not informed of Kate Middleton’s cancer diagnosis ahead of time, according to royal experts. The Sussexes, who have distanced themselves from the Royal Family in recent years, are said to have learned of Kate’s health issue at the same moment the public did. Kate, 42, is going through chemotherapy after tests following her abdominal surgery in January uncovered cancer.
The future queen described the news as a “huge shock” in an emotional televised announcement on March 22. Soon after, Harry and Meghan released a brief, heartfelt statement expressing their wish for “health and healing for Kate and the family” and hoping they could deal with it privately.
As per reports, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were not told about Kate’s condition before her video message. A publication stated, “Multiple sources confirm there were no such discussions and Harry appears to have found out about Kate’s diagnosis from TV, concurrently with the public.”
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams told a leading British tabloid that the Sussexes were possibly not informed due to mistrust and uncertainty over what royal information they might make public later. He said there’s a “deep rift between the brothers” and they apparently haven’t spoken in months, so the royals “can’t be trusted.”
Mr. Fitzwilliams claimed William “hasn’t trusted Harry and Meghan” after their Oprah interview, Harry’s memoir Spare, and their Netflix show. He added their money-making ventures raise questions about their future plans. Kensington Palace declined to comment. The Mirror contacted the Sussexes for comment.
A PR expert told a publication the quickness of Harry and Meghan’s supportive statement was positive. Ryan McCormick said: “The speed for which it came out is positive.” He mentioned this big event could help everyone forget past issues. Mr. McCormick added the “gravity of this situation may be so large that it could melt away long-held grievances.” He said, “Yes, Meghan and Harry have their faults but, family is family. Their feud could very well end immediately.”
Reports claim the Sussexes subsequently reached out to the Waleses privately. On social media, ITV’s Chris Ship said: “Harry contacted William after learning of Kate’s cancer. Harry and Meghan have both been in touch with their brother/sister-in-law privately.” It’s unclear if it was a call, video chat or just supportive messages.
A Kensington Palace statement expressed William and Kate’s gratitude for the kind messages of support from people worldwide. It read, “The Prince and Princess are both enormously touched by the kind messages from people here in the UK, across the Commonwealth and around the world.”
