King Charles 'not content' with only seeing Archie and Lilibet on video - and wants change
King Charles is reportedly keen on building a stronger bond with Prince Harry's children, according to insiders.
Despite battling cancer since February, the monarch is thought to have expressed his dissatisfaction with only seeing Archie, five, and two year old Lilibet via video calls, having met Archie only a few times and Lilibet once.
In an effort to be more involved, it's been revealed that he sent Lili a "heartfelt gift and card" for her recent birthday. Close sources to the 75 year old King, who was in Normandy last week for D-Day commemorations, say he's more eager than ever to focus on his family and duties and "makeup for lost time", after his diagnosis forced him to reduce his engagements.
Prince Harry, 39, Meghan, 42, and their kids reside in Montecito, California, following their decision to step back from Royal duties in 2020. Their relationship with the Royal Family has been strained due to high-profile interviews, including one with Oprah in 2021, a Netflix show in 2022, and Harry's explosive memoir, Spare, released in 2023.
Insiders close to King Charles III reveal he's been in a contemplative state, cherishing the strong connection he shares with Prince William's trio of youngsters. He's hailed as an "amazing and eager grandad" when it comes to his time with Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, according to those in the know.
Queen Camilla, who recently gave an update on the King’s health, is said to be a key influence in his renewed dedication to being a part of all his grandchildren's lives, reports the Mirror.
A confidant disclosed: "The King is absolutely committed to being present in all of his grandchildren's lives. He values family above everything and whatever the course of his relationship with his son he would never be content with just seeing his grandchildren on the odd video call."
Despite the distance, Harry made a dash to the UK to see his dad post-diagnosis. Yet, after travelling over 5,000 miles, Harry and Charles only had a brief 30-minute encounter.
Shortly after, during an interview with ABC in the States, the Duke expressed: "I love my family. The fact that I was able to get on a plane and go and see him and spend any time with him, I'm grateful for that."
Royal author Ingrid Seward, who penned 'My Mother and I The Inside Story of the King and Our Late Queen', commented: "Family has always been important to the King. He remembers his own somewhat fragmented childhood as his parents were always busy doing their duty. It is a great sadness to him he doesn't see more of Archie and Lilibet."
