The royal family is never far from the headlines, and this week has been no exception.
Joining me to delve into the latest developments is royal biographer Angela Levin.
It’s hard to believe that two years have flown by since the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
Time seems to stretch and compress simultaneously when reflecting on such a monumental figure.
Angela recalls the Queen’s final days, noting her significant unhappiness and pain, especially leading up to the Jubilee celebration.
Prince Charles, now King, insisted that the Queen attend the jubilee, believing the public would lift her spirits.
Dressed in green, she made an appearance that brought her joy, even amid her suffering.
A memorable moment was her playful interaction with Paddington Bear, sharing honey on their bread, which showcased her ability to find lightness even in dark times.
However, the shadow cast by Harry and Meghan’s actions weighed heavily on her heart, particularly as they launched unflattering narratives about the royal family.
Angela emphasizes the emotional toll these family disputes took on the late monarch.
Having lost her husband just two years prior, the Queen’s spirit seemed to diminish as she faced ongoing familial strife.
The knowledge that Harry and Meghan were aware of her declining health yet chose to act harshly only adds to the sadness of her later years.
This cruelty, Angela argues, contributed to the Queen’s overall unhappiness.
While many assumed her death was simply a result of old age, Angela clarifies that her health issues were more complex, exacerbated by the emotional burdens she carried.
The relentless pressures from within her own family certainly didn’t help her state of mind.
Prince William, understandably frustrated, grapples with the impact of Harry and Meghan’s choices on their grandmother.
In a glimmer of hope, there’s exciting news about a new garden dedicated to the Queen, set to open in 2026.
Angela reveals that 300 flowers have already been planted, promising a beautiful tribute to Her Majesty.
Located in central London, near Swiss Cottage and Finchley, this garden aims to provide a serene space for the public to enjoy.
It’s a fitting way to honor the Queen’s legacy and will be free for visitors.
As the conversation shifts, Angela shares intriguing insights regarding Meghan Markle.
Reports suggest that Meghan now regrets her exit from royal life and has expressed remorse over her accusations of racism against the family.
However, Angela remains skeptical about the sincerity of these claims, pointing out that timing is everything, and it may be too late for genuine reconciliation.
In a twist of fate, Meghan’s trademark application for her brand has been denied due to alleged carelessness.
This setback raises questions about her approach to business ventures, especially given the high stakes involved.
One would think that securing the necessary legal groundwork would take precedence before launching a new brand.
Meanwhile, a significant development involving Prince Harry has emerged.
He has been officially removed from the Council of State, marking a notable shift in his royal responsibilities.
This decision, confirmed on the royal website, underscores a broader strategy to distance him from key royal duties.
The implications of this move are profound, as it suggests a gradual sidelining of Harry from the royal framework.
Angela notes that this decision reflects a calculated response from the royal family, who seem to be quietly but firmly establishing boundaries.
Despite Harry’s desire to maintain a home in Windsor, the reality of his position continues to evolve, leaving him outside the inner circle of royal governance.
The royal family appears to be moving forward without engaging in public disputes or arguments.
Instead, they are focusing on their responsibilities and commitments, leaving Harry to navigate his own path.
As he approaches his 40th birthday, there’s hope that he might find a renewed sense of purpose and perhaps a more conciliatory attitude towards his family.
In the end, Angela and I reflect on the complexities of royal life, the emotional weight of family dynamics, and the enduring legacy of Queen Elizabeth II.
The royal narrative continues to unfold, and while there are challenges ahead, the story of the monarchy remains as captivating as ever.
