Prince Harry’s Memoir Is Expected to Be Critical of Charles, Says Royal Expert
The source added that Charles will want a "hard hat" to deal with the blowback.

Never mind that no one has actually read Prince Harry’s forthcoming memoir, or the fact that isn’t expected to hit stands until late next year: This book is already responsible for some serious drama. For one thing, as royal expert Nick Bullen pointed out earlier this year, 2022 is going to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, a year-long celebration of Elizabeth II’s reign—the longest in English history. Some people, said Bullen, might see the timing as disrespectful, in that it might be construed as stepping on the Queen’s toes or stealing the spotlight.
Of course, this argument suggests that the memoir will be critical of the royal family, something that remains speculation. However, we’re already seeing some indications that, at least when it comes to certain members of the Firm, Harry may not pull any punches.
Speaking to Us Weekly, royal biographer and expert Andrew Morton said that Prince Charles, in particular, has reason to be nervous for the new memoir. “If I was Prince Charles, I’d be looking for a pile of coats to hide under,” Morton said. “I think we’re going to see Charles once more in the firing line.”
Morton says that though the rest of the royal family “haven’t received a copy yet and don’t know what to expect,” Harry himself said in the press release announcing the book that he was going to be “wholly accurate”—which may be taken to mean “brutally honest.”
“The thing about Harry is that if you ask him a straight question, he’ll give you a straight answer,” Morton told the publication.
As we reported earlier, it’s expected that Harry’s book—which is as of yet untitled— will talk about his experiences growing up as a childhood royal, the loss of his mother Princess Diana and the impact it had on him, and his reasons for stepping away from royal duties.
It’s that last one that has led to speculation that Harry is going to be extremely honest about Charles, who it’s speculated (though unconfirmed) may be the family member who made “racist” comments toward Meghan, an incident they brought up in their Oprah interview earlier this year despite not naming names.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Morton added that Harry has completed writing the book.
Marie Claire is committed to celebrating the richness and scope of women's lives. We're known for our award-winning features, thoughtful essays and op-eds, deep commitment to sustainable fashion, and buzzy interviews and reviews. Reaching millions of women every month, MarieClaire.com is an internationally-recognized destination for celebrity news, fashion trends, beauty recommendations, and renowned investigative packages.
-
What to Know About the Cast of 'Adolescence,' Netflix's Must-Watch Family Drama About a Shocking Crime
A newcomer leads the gripping yet heartbreaking British miniseries.
By Radhika Menon Published
-
This Royal Was Once Asked to Become King of a Small European Country and Refused
It's giving Hallmark movie plot.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Prince William Could be Getting a New Title Very Soon Following Exciting News
The Prince of Wales would be taking on a very important role.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Queen Elizabeth Reportedly Did an Incredible Impression of Melania Trump
The late monarch was a hilariously skilled mimic.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
The Queen Mother Loved Male Company at Events: "The Bigger the Rogue, the Better"
"She loved all the reprobates in racing," horse trainer Nicky Henderson revealed.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Prince Harry Proves He's a Total Girl Dad in Sweet New Photo of Daughter Princess Lilibet
Lilibet is curled up in her dad's lap in the previously unseen snap.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Duchess Sophie Shows Her "Deep Connection" to Second Mom Queen Elizabeth With $30,000 Tribute
The royal duo shared a loving bond.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Prince Harry Makes a Brief but Meaningful Appearance in Netflix's 'With Love, Meghan'
The Duke of Sussex requests a mimosa as he supports wife Meghan Markle at an important event.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet Celebrate Meghan Markle's New Netflix Show With an Amazing Gift
The little royals paid tribute to their mom's success in the sweetest way.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Prince Harry Reveals His Favorite Thing About Raising Lilibet and Archie in California
The Duke of Sussex shared the one thing he can do in the U.S. "without any issue."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Queen Elizabeth's "True Favorite" Is Taking Over One of the Late Monarch's Beloved Roles
It's a position steeped in history.
By Kristin Contino Published