The more we know about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle‘s decision to step back from their royal duties, the more we’re learning about how it was apparently made without much of any consultation with family members.
We’ve known Queen Elizabeth II was remarkably taken aback by it, according to our reporting on Wednesday night. Now we’re also learning Prince William and Kate Middleton were equally shocked and “incredibly hurt” to learn of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s unconventional plans. Wow!
Related: Revisit Harry And Meghan’s Relationship Timeline Amid News Of Step-Back!
According to a source close to the matter who spoke about it to Us Weekly, the 37-year-old older brother was “blindsided” by his sibling’s decision this week. The insider revealed (below):
“William was blindsided by Harry and Meghan’s decision and statement. William is incredibly hurt, but at the same time he has his own family to focus on and is trying to move forward with his life. There’s still a rift between them. It’s sad because when they were younger, William would be the first person Harry would go to with big news like this.”
A family divided cannot stand… and this one makes it seem like the rift between brothers is huge and still growing! Not great!!!
And then there was birthday drama!
The source shared more context about the fallout and aftermath of the 35-year-old younger Prince’s choice to step back, as well. For one, here is this very interesting tidbit about Kate’s 38th birthday, which is Thursday:
“Harry and Meghan rubbed salt into the wounds by making the huge announcement a day before Kate’s birthday. It hasn’t gone down well with William.”
Yikes! Wonder if they even considered the timing of their announcement?!
Who knows…
Related: William And Kate Are Doing Their Best To Prep Their Kids For ‘Normal’ Life!
What we do know is the Duke and Duchess of Sussex at least came through with some public birthday wishes for William’s wife. As you can see, one official Instagram account spoke to another in order to send well-wishes on to the now 38-year-old momma of three:
![Prince harry Meghan Markle Kate Middleton happy birthday](https://perezhilton.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/sussex-royal-kensington-royal-kate-middleton-birthday.jpg)
Hey, something is better than nothing, we suppose.
Still, doesn’t it feel like they should’ve written up a full birthday post instead of just a tiny ol’ comment? Maybe we’re reading too much into this, but… just saying!!!
Related: Here’s How Meghan And Harry Can Make Money In Their New Life…
Birthday messages or not, it’s clear life has undeniably forever changed for increasingly-estranged brothers Harry and William, and their respective wives. Nothing will ever be the same after this week’s events.
Has that hit you yet, Perezcious readers?? What do U think about watching this truly historical royal family rift play out in real time?? Sound OFF with all your comments and more (below)…
[Image via WENN/Avalon]