The growing rift between Prince William and Prince Harry continues to make headlines, and a recent incident has added fuel to the fire. According to reports, Prince William is reportedly upset with Harry and Meghan Markle for their repeated use of ‘Kate’ instead of Catherine when referring to the Princess of Wales. This issue has particularly angered William, especially in the wake of Catherine’s recent cancer diagnosis.
The Daily Beast reported that sources close to the Wales family revealed that Prince William was deeply offended by Harry and Meghan’s casual use of ‘Kate’ in a public statement released during Catherine’s cancer treatment. The couple’s use of the nickname, particularly in a message expressing concern for her health, has been interpreted as disrespectful and insensitive.
Despite the Sussexes’ statement expressing concern and well wishes for Catherine, their consistent use of ‘Kate’ has reportedly been a point of contention. A close friend of William and Catherine told The Daily Beast, “The fact that Harry and Meghan were unable to bring themselves to use her chosen name, even when they were sending her get-well-soon messages after her cancer diagnosis, was noted.”
This friend explained that Prince William prefers to be addressed by his full name, Catherine, and that the use of ‘Kate’ is seen as dismissive. “William takes offense at people calling Catherine ‘Kate,’ because she has asked to be known as Catherine. It’s a fairly simple wish to respect. I’m sure Meghan wouldn’t like it if William started publicly calling her ‘Meghan Markle’,” the friend stated.
While another friend of the couple acknowledged that this specific incident is not the root of the ongoing tension between the brothers, they emphasized the importance of showing respect. “No-one’s saying it’s responsible for all the trouble, but deliberately calling someone by a name they don’t like is just bloody rude,” the friend said. They went on to suggest that a simple gesture of calling Catherine by her preferred name could be a step towards reconciliation. “If Harry and Meghan were serious about healing their issue, a good first step would be to call her Catherine,” they advised.
This latest development adds another layer of complexity to the already strained relationship between the brothers, highlighting the seemingly insurmountable differences in their approaches to the royal family and the public eye. It remains to be seen whether this incident will further widen the gap between them or whether it might serve as a catalyst for a future reconciliation.
