Prince Harry wants to mend fences with estranged brother William.

Prince Harry has stated that he seeks to reconcile with his estranged family, specifically aiming to smooth relations with his father, King Charles III, and his older brother, Prince William. The 42-year-old Duke of Sussex made these remarks in an interview with the American magazine GQ, which was recorded in New York in September and published on Tuesday, October 21, 2026. Harry described reconciliation as the "most important thing" given current global events, expressing a desire for his family, himself, and certain sections of the British media to leave the past behind for the wider good. While he acknowledged that some battles fought in recent years were necessary, he hopes everyone can draw a line under the conflicts. The Duke of Sussex explained that the public’s fascination with his family’s situation stems from its relatability. He noted that discussions with people frequently touch upon sibling disagreements and broken relationships between children and their parents. "Some people don’t want it to work out. I want it to work out," Harry said. His spokesperson clarified that these comments were not intended as a criticism of William or any other family member. Harry admitted that scars remain forever, but he believes individuals can change their perspective on old grievances. He argued that there is sufficient drama in the world and in individual lives to avoid continuing family issues, stating simply, "It is not worth it." This statement comes shortly after Harry, his wife Meghan, and their children, seven-year-old Prince Archie and five-year-old Princess Lilibet, relocated back to the United Kingdom. The family left California at the end of summer 2026, ending a six-year residence in the United States. They had initially departed Britain in early 2020 following a dispute with the monarchy and a step-down from royal duties. Harry cited opportunities for the family and the chance to enroll the children in a British school as primary reasons for the move. He revealed that he did not realize how significant attending a local school would be until the children started. After two weeks in class, he reported that they are enjoying the experience. Harry also indicated he wishes to spend "more than a few days here and there" on British soil to stay closer to his relatives. The relationship between Harry and the core of the royal family remains complex despite the recent return. Media reports suggest Harry has barely spoken to Prince William, the heir to the throne, for approximately four years. Tensions with his father have eased somewhat; Harry stated that King Charles, who has been undergoing treatment for cancer for over two and a half years, is doing better. In contrast, the rift with William and his wife Catherine persists according to previous accounts. King Charles issued an official letter in early September clarifying that Harry and Meghan are not working members of the royal family. Their status is equivalent to that of private citizens, and they should not be addressed using the style of Royal Highness. Harry also addressed his ongoing legal conflicts with British newspapers. He expressed hope that these disputes could be resolved, noting that he wants to move forward toward the greater good. The interview touched on personal themes, including the loss of his mother, Princess Diana, when he was 12. Harry said he is in a much better psychological state than ten years ago, aided by psychotherapy. He reflected on their final phone call, admitting that if he had known it was their last conversation, he would have handled it differently, as he had shortened the call to join his cousins at the time. He emphasized that he carries his mother’s memory through his work rather than allowing grief to hold him back, though he rejected any need for public sympathy. While Harry spoke publicly about his desire for peace, the rest of the royal family engaged in high-profile diplomatic duties during the same period. On the day the interview was released, King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Princess Catherine attended a state banquet at Windsor Castle to honor Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman. This marked the Sultan’s first state visit to the United Kingdom since 1982. The event took place in St George’s Hall, hosting 160 selected guests. The menu featured pheasant specialties, and tables were decorated with pomegranates from the castle gardens. At the banquet, Princess Catherine wore a bright yellow evening gown by designer Elie Saab, accessorized with the Lover’s Knot tiara, diamond earrings, and a historic bracelet from the late Queen Elizabeth II’s private collection. Queen Camilla appeared in a purple chiffon dress designed by Fiona Clare. King Charles and Prince William wore formal tailcoats adorned with order ribbons. The visual splendor of the occasion stood in sharp contrast to Harry’s candid admission of pain regarding the fractured family bonds. As of the publication of the interview, it remained unclear whether other family members were prepared to take decisive steps toward reconciliation. Harry did not name specific individuals he believed were obstructing the process.