Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s Contact with Kate Middleton amid Her Cancer Diagnosis

The relationship between the members of the British royal family has been a topic of great interest, especially in light of recent events. Following Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s disclosure about Princess Kate’s cancer diagnosis, there has been speculation and debate surrounding the dynamics within the royal family.

Princess Kate’s Public Disclosure

On a recent Fridays, Princess Catherine of Wales (also known as Lady Kate Middleton) went public with her cancer diagnosis in a rare video address. The announcement brought months of speculation and conspiracy theories to an end. During her address, she revealed that despite planned abdominal surgery, medics found that cancer had been present. As a result, she is undergoing a course of preventive chemotherapy.

Initially speculation circulated that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry might attempt to reach out to Kate Middleton. However, there is significant doubt over whether such a contact would be accepted, given Kate's views and the strained relations between the families.

The Discrepancy in Communication

According to reports by The Times of London, both the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry learned about Kate’s diagnosis from a television broadcast rather than from the royal family themselves. This led to several sources, including a family member, stating that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were 'left out of any details regarding Kate’s diagnosis'.

The unavailability of details about Kate’s condition further fueled speculation about the breakdown in trust between the families. Royal historian Richard Fitzwilliams commented that a lack of trust and untouchable tension between Harry and Meghan had disrupted family unity. This period of disunity has been a hallmark of their relations for years, evident from Harry’s memoir and the show Harry and Meghan on Netflix.

Past Tensions and Reconciliations

The royal family has experienced significant losses in recent years, including the deaths of Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth II. These periods of crises have often brought the royal family together, as seen with Prince Charles and Prince Harry’s brief reconciliation in February 2023. Following the King Charles III’s cancer diagnosis, Harry flew to the U.K. for less than an hour, a visit that marked a reunion between the two after months of separation.

Following her cancer disclosure, Princess Kate and her husband, Prince William, issued a statement expressing hope for the family's handling of the news privately and in peace. They have also reportedly been in touch with the Prince and Princess of Wales, sending well-wishes and messages of support.

Royal commentator Sarah-Louise Robertson suggested that the text messages and exchanges may be seen as a step towards reconciliation, potentially serving as an 'olive branch' in an otherwise strained relationship. While reconnection remains uncertain, the possibility of family unity during a challenging time remains a possibility.