The tension goes back years and, according to Bower, includes what he sees as several moments that crossed a line. Harry’s memoir Spare, with its intimate descriptions of private family disputes, is still considered one of the most painful blows. Yet Bower believes the real turning point was Meghan and Harry’s 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey. Meghan’s statement about conversations within the family regarding Archie’s skin tone sparked worldwide controversy and forced Buckingham Palace to respond publicly. Their message was brief but significant, noting that the issues raised were concerning and would be handled privately.
Controversy resurfaced again when Meghan sent a gift accompanied by a card using the HRH title, despite the couple’s agreement not to use it. Their team maintained that it was not used for commercial purposes, but critics saw it as a sign that the Sussexes still rely on the status attached to their former roles.
