While Kate found it within herself to extend forgiveness, William was said to be struggling with his lingering frustration. “She doesn’t believe it’s right to just give up on Harry. She’s worried for him because she sees all the signs of how homesick and vulnerable he is,” the insider said.

Kate’s Influence on William and the Broader Royal Approach

Royal commentator Jennie Bond supported the notion that Kate played a key role in softening William’s stance. Speaking to The Mirror, she stated, “Perhaps she has persuaded William that life is too short for grudges. Birthday wishes posted on the main royal family website are also a sign of a possible thaw in relations between Harry and his father.

Although Bond acknowledged that a full reconciliation between the brothers may never come, she suggested that the gesture might mark the beginning of a subtle shift. “But this is only a tentative first step in a complex and sensitive situation. I still think the brothers’ relationship is almost irretrievable,” she concluded.

The Fallout from ‘Spare’ and the Strain on Kate

In his memoir Spare, Harry shed light on the strained dynamics between himself and Kate. As noted by Hello! magazine, he recounted an incident where Kate allegedly made Meghan Markle cry, and suggested she had a role in influencing his controversial decision to wear a Nazi costume years ago.

Royal expert Katie Nicholl told The Sun that Harry’s portrayal of Kate in the book severely damaged their relationship. “She tried to get the brothers back on an even keel, and for Kate to be dragged into this mucky saga was upsetting for her and certainly did infuriate William,” Nicholl said.

Since the release of Spare, Harry and Kate have not been seen together publicly. Their last joint appearance was at King Charles’ coronation on May 6, 2023.