The late Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, was reportedly “furious” upon learning about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to step back from the Royal Family in January 2020. According to Christopher Andersen, author of Brothers and Wives: Inside the Private Lives of William, Kate, Harry and Meghan, Philip expressed his anger and disappointment after the couple announced their plans without prior consultation with other royals.
Andersen reveals that Philip reacted with intense emotion, describing him as “spitting blood” when he discovered the news via social media. The Duke of Edinburgh reportedly went straight to Queen Elizabeth II to convey his frustration, stating, “This shows a complete lack of respect.” The Duke was particularly upset by the couple’s choice to publicize their departure on Instagram, bypassing traditional royal protocols.
In Andersen’s book, it’s highlighted that both Prince Philip and Prince Charles initially had a positive view of Meghan Markle. However, their perception shifted dramatically following the announcement. Philip allegedly confided in one of his aides that the royal family might have been mistaken about Meghan all along, likening her situation to that of Wallis Simpson, the American socialite who married King Edward VIII, leading to his abdication.
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Charles’ reaction was also described as severe, with reports suggesting he had a tense conversation with Harry, urging him to “try and fix this.” Buckingham Palace has declined to comment on the book’s revelations, stating that discussing such publications risks giving them undue authority.
This revelation adds a new layer to the ongoing narrative of Harry and Meghan’s departure from royal duties and highlights the deep divisions within the Royal Family that have emerged from their decision to step back.
