Prince Harry is reportedly making an effort to avoid scheduling his activities at the same time as major events involving King Charles and the Prince and Princess of Wales. The move has been interpreted as a possible olive branch toward his family, including Catherine, Princess of Wales.
Harry and his brother, Prince William, have faced an extended period of tension, while his relationship with Kate has also reportedly suffered. The pair were once close but have not been seen together publicly since King Charles’ coronation in May 2023.
According to a source close to the Sussexes quoted by The Times, Harry is aware of the King’s upcoming attendance at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting and the Prince and Princess of Wales’ expected visit to India. The source said he is taking those plans into account while arranging his own schedule.
King Charles is on a nine-day Caribbean tour that will conclude at CHOGM. Meanwhile, the Earthshot Prize Awards are scheduled to take place in Mumbai this month, with Prince William confirmed to attend. It remains unclear whether Kate will join him. If she does, it would be her first appearance at the awards since 2022.
The reported scheduling consideration follows criticism after an interview with Harry was published on the same day as the King’s ceremonial welcome for the Sultan of Oman. A spokesperson for the Sussexes said the publication date was decided by GQ, rather than by Harry, but the timing prompted discussion about whether his appearances could draw attention away from working members of the royal family.
Against that background, taking the royal calendar into account could signal an attempt to make room for his family rather than compete with them for media attention. Kate’s role in that relationship may be particularly significant: royal editor Russell Myers has written that she tried to help keep the brothers close, including by advising William and speaking privately with Harry.
Kate also has a prominent place in the royal calendar through her annual Together at Christmas carol concert. The event brings together well-known figures and people recognized for their contributions to their communities, making it another occasion where Harry’s reported consideration of the Waleses’ plans could be viewed as meaningful.
Sources: Cosmopolitan.