It’s been a big week for royal news, and the Oprah Winfrey tell-all with Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan marked only the beginning.
In the wake of the interview, The Queen has now responded with a statement outlining where she and other members of her family stand.
In the short, but direct statement issued by Buckingham Palace, it read: “The whole family is saddened to learn the full extent of how challenging the last few years have been for Harry and Meghan.
“The issues raised, particularly that of race, are concerning. While some recollections may vary, they are taken very seriously and will be addressed by the family privately.”
The statement concluded: “Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much loved family members.”
Many have pondered if and when the Palace would break its silence in the wake of the interview, which included some shocking claims about Meghan and Harry’s woeful lack of support from direct royal family members, and concern over their unborn baby’s skin colour.
Meghan also told Oprah it was Kate who made her cry, rather than the other way around as was reported by tabloid press in the lead up to her 2018 wedding.
Additionally, Harry detailed his account of asking to step back from the royal family, with conversations with his father Prince Charles being cut off after three calls, according to the frustrated Prince.
The statement is not unexpected, but it’s also somewhat interesting to unpack.
The palace look to have claimed some responsibility here, writing that their account is “concerning”, though they do appear to be lifting some of the blame when they state that a few of their “recollections may vary” as per the allegations.
That said there’s no denying this interview and was monumental in shifting the focus from salacious gossip and unverified lies written about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, instead putting more weight on Buckingham Palace and its lack of support for the couple, who were clearly struggling.
Perhaps this will be a lesson for all to learn – behind every story, and every headline is a person who is not always accountable. Perhaps a little more kindness and understanding would make a better focus for all, including the Palace.
Want more on Harry and Meghan’s tell-all interview? Check out the stories below!
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