According to a new biography, Queen Elizabeth II grew wary of private conversations with her grandson, Prince Harry, following his departure from royal duties in 2020. Royal expert Hugo Vickers writes in "Queen Elizabeth II: A Personal History" that the late monarch requested her lady-in-waiting to remain in the room whenever Harry called.
Vickers states that the distress caused by Harry and Meghan Markle's actions in the Queen's final years was significant. Sources describe the calls as strained, with the Queen often giving brief, one-word answers. An insider suggested she sought "protection" and was "on her guard" due to feeling hurt.
The reported change in dynamics intensified after the Sussexes' 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, where they made serious allegations about the royal family. Despite the tensions, Harry has publicly expressed deep respect for his grandmother. The Queen's 2020 statement acknowledged their wish for a more independent life while hoping they would remain working royals.