Meghan Markle branded 'the flea in the ointment' amid Prince Harry's 'rift' with William
It's claimed that Harry and William aren't on speaking terms
The reported rift between Prince William and Prince Harry continues to deepen, and some royal commentators are pointing the finger at Meghan Markle.
Royal expert Ingrid Seward told Fox News Digital that Meghan, 44, is widely viewed as a “damaging” force both inside and outside the monarchy.
Meghan Markle accused of being ‘damaging’ in ‘rift’ between Prince Harry and Prince William
“The flea in the ointment really is very much Meghan,” Ingrid claimed. “She’s disliked intensely by a large number of monarchists in this country. They see her as being very damaging to the royal family.”
Ingrid also suggested that Meghan’s estrangement from her own father, Thomas Markle, is seen as unsettling on both sides of the Atlantic.
“It’s extraordinary to think that her children have not met their grandfather,” she said. “Harry’s never even met her father, which is extraordinary. People in the States find that extremely odd. We find it odd here too.”
The reported rift between the Sussexes and the rest of the royal family appears rooted in distrust.
The flea in the ointment really is very much Meghan.
Royal commentator Hilary Fordwich also echoed that sentiment. She claimed that the senior royals have not forgotten how private conversations may have been used for public or commercial purposes.
Hilary said: “Persistent lack of trust is the main reason why senior royals remain reluctant to engage in reconciliation efforts. Their concerns are well-founded, that any private family discussions could become public or be used for commercial projects… [Meghan]… has no sense of duty toward the British public nor the institution.”
‘The rift is very profound and long-lasting’
Reports have claimed that William and Harry are still on separate paths, with no communication between them.
Royal biographer Robert Lacey, author of Battle of Brothers, reinforced this.
“The rift is very profound and very long-lasting,” he told PEOPLE. “It will not be changed until Harry makes a move and apologises.”
Sources reportedly said that Harry’s attempts to reach out to his brother have been ignored. Ingrid noted that William, 43, has taken a firm stance following the Sussexes’ string of explosive interviews and memoir revelations.
In his 2023 memoir Spare, Harry discussed a now-infamous altercation where William reportedly called Meghan “difficult” and “rude,” and then allegedly physically attacked his brother.
While some experts remain hopeful for healing between the brothers, Ingrid doesn’t see Meghan returning to royal life anytime soon.
Ingrid also claimed that Meghan has no “intention” of ever returning to royal life. She cited her life in Montecito as proof that the duchess already has everything she wants.
Ingrid also noted that the alleged hostile reception from the British public and media will likely keep her away.
Prince Harry reconciliation ‘could happen’ in September
Meanwhile, Harry is expected to return to the UK this September to support WellChild, a charity close to his heart.
Whether that trip leads to any royal reunion remains uncertain, but sources close to the family hope it might be a step toward healing.
Royal Insider has contacted reps for Kensington Palace for comment.
Read more: Meghan Markle defended for not publicly supporting ‘lonely’ Prince Harry over Sentebale charity row
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