Kate Middleton and Prince Harry once shared a close, friendly bond, though their relationship reportedly took a turn after Harry’s marriage to Meghan Markle and their eventual departure from royal duties. The two were seen together at various royal events over the years, often sharing lighthearted moments and laughter. According to royal author Tom Quinn, Harry used to have a “warm, uncomplicated relationship” with Kate, something he reportedly misses now as they have grown distant.

LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 05:  Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry smile as the leave a Se

Quinn shared that Harry now feels torn between his loyalty to Meghan and his regret over the loss of his close friendship with Kate. Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, and Harry were once particularly close due to Kate’s relationship with his brother, Prince William. The author suggests that Harry misses the simplicity of their former bond, free from complications and public scrutiny.

Meghan Markle, however, reportedly feels differently about her relationship with Kate. Meghan doesn’t feel any particular guilt over the fallout, as Quinn claims she believes Kate should have been the one person in the royal family to back her. In Meghan’s view, Kate, who was also an “outsider” before her marriage to William, might have been expected to empathize with Meghan’s challenges within the royal fold.

The Duchess of Sussex allegedly found it confusing that Kate always chose to “tow the royal line” rather than showing solidarity with her, Meghan, the other “outsider.” This difference in expectations has reportedly created a divide between the two women, and Meghan’s feelings on the matter have seemingly only deepened over time. This tension has contributed to what sources describe as a now “poisonous” relationship between the two.

In March, Kate shocked the public with a video statement on Instagram, updating followers on a difficult health journey. She revealed that, in January, she had undergone major abdominal surgery, initially thought to be unrelated to cancer. However, subsequent tests showed that cancer had been present, prompting her medical team to recommend preventive chemotherapy.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 11: Catherine, The Duchess of Cambridge stands with Meghan, Duchess of Susse

Kate shared her thoughts on how challenging the diagnosis has been for her and her family. She said that, while she was still in the early stages of chemotherapy, the support of her husband, Prince William, had been a significant source of comfort. The Duchess also thanked the public for their kindness and requested privacy for herself and her family as she completed her treatment.

Despite the shocking news about Kate’s health, Meghan has reportedly not been inclined to repair the fractured relationship. Quinn claims that Meghan feels any attempt to reconcile now might be seen as an attempt to gain public sympathy or to repair her image. According to Quinn, Meghan still believes that Kate should apologize before they can consider mending their relationship. This belief, combined with lingering misunderstandings, continues to keep the two women at odds.