The royal family has long been the subject of public fascination and intrigue. While much of the media focuses on their philanthropy and ceremonial duties, recent revelations have painted a more complex picture of Prince William, the heir to the British throne. A new book by royal biographer Robert Jobson, titled Catherine, The Princess Of Wales, sheds light on Prince William’s alleged hypocrisy and temper, providing a less-than-flattering portrait of the future king.
The Balmoral Snub
Amidst a backdrop of family tensions and public scandals, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have been notably absent from Balmoral Castle. The world-renowned estate serves as the royal family’s secluded summer retreat in the Scottish Highlands, and it holds a special place in Prince Harry’s childhood memories. However, Meghan, Archie, and Lilibet have never been invited, highlighting the ongoing rift within the family.
The Jewelry Drama
One of the book’s most eye-catching claims revolves around a 2018 incident concerning Princess Diana’s jewelry. As Prince Harry prepared to marry Meghan Markle, Prince William reportedly approached the Queen to ensure that Meghan would not be allowed to wear any of Princess Diana’s jewels, despite his own wife, Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, being permitted to do so. This alleged double standard has raised questions about Prince William’s motivations and character.
Media Rivalry and the Haircut Stunt
Jobson’s book reveals further insights into William’s competitive nature, especially regarding media attention. In January 2018, just months before Harry and Meghan’s wedding, William reportedly found himself irritated when the Sussexes scheduled an engagement that clashed with one of his own. In a seemingly petty move, he chose to debut a dramatic buzz cut on the same day as their engagement, drawing media attention to himself. This act of one-upmanship highlights a competitive streak that, according to Jobson, is not uncommon for William.
The Mother’s Day Photo Controversy
Earlier this year, Kensington Palace found itself in the midst of a global photo scandal when an edited image of Catherine and their children surfaced. The photo, reportedly manipulated by the Duchess herself, became a point of embarrassment for the royal family. While William’s PR team initially suggested issuing a joint statement to share the blame, William ultimately decided against it, leaving Catherine to face the music alone. At the time, Kate was also dealing with a cancer diagnosis, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
A Royal Temperament
Prince William’s temper has been a subject of discussion, with Jobson describing him as “a bit of a shouter.” Reports suggest that even King Charles is not immune to William’s fiery temperament. Despite their love for each other, tensions between the King and the Prince of Wales have been a recurring theme. A courtier told Jobson, “The King’s relationship with both his sons has been difficult over the years. Even now he is King, with the Prince of Wales, there can be differences of opinion and tensions.”
This portrayal aligns with Prince Harry’s depiction of his brother in his memoir, Spare, where he described William as resentful and self-involved. The book recounts an incident where William allegedly ordered Harry to shave his beard, an act Harry claims was motivated by envy.
Historical Context: Royals and Egos
Historically, royal heirs are not known for their modesty, and William seems to be no exception. The book draws parallels between William and historical figures like Louis XVI, who exhibited similar arrogance and entitlement. Jobson’s portrayal of William as a man driven by ego and status adds a new dimension to the public’s perception of the future king.
The Meghan Markle Incident
In a final anecdote, Jobson recounts the day of Harry and Meghan’s wedding when Meghan appeared wearing a stunning Stella McCartney dress and one of Diana’s most iconic pieces of jewelry, an aquamarine ring. This moment symbolized Meghan’s defiance against William’s alleged attempt to control the narrative surrounding Diana’s legacy.
As the royal family continues to navigate its way through internal disputes and public scrutiny, Robert Jobson’s book offers a candid glimpse into the dynamics of one of the world’s most closely watched families. The revelations about Prince William’s character serve as a reminder that behind the regal facade lies a complex interplay of emotions and power struggles. While the royal family maintains its image of nobility and duty, Jobson’s book invites readers to consider the human side of the monarchy—flaws and all.
