Heir vs. Spare: Prince William and Prince Harry’s bond with Queen Elizabeth II

Prince William and Prince Harry shared unique yet profound bonds with Queen Elizabeth II.

Let's take a closer look at what their bond with the late monarch was really like:

The Heir’s take

Prince William shared a close relationship with the late Queen Elizabeth II. 

From a young age, the Queen made sure William was included in significant state events and given insights into the day-to-day affairs of the monarchy.

As the royal family recently marked the third anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s death on September 8, 2025, it is worth reflecting on the times William has spoken of her great influence on him.

In a 2016 BBC interview for her 90th birthday, he referred to her as “a very strong female influence.”

The eldest son of Princess Diana and King Charles III spoke highly of the guidance the Queen provided to him and his family.

Paying tribute to his late grandmother in 2022, William wrote, “And while I grieve her loss, I also feel incredibly grateful. I have had the benefit of The Queen’s wisdom and reassurance into my fifth decade.”

Elsewhere in the homage, he also acknowledged the unwavering “guidance and support” the queen offered his wife, Catherine, Princess of Wales, as well as the love she gave to his three children- Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, per BBC.

The Spare’s struggles

Prince Harry’s bond with the Queen was deeply personal, though complicated by his role as the spare.

In his memoir Spare which was released on 10 January 2023, the Duke of Sussex described her as his “beloved granny” but also reflected on his struggles with the institution she represented.

Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle’s, decision to step back from royal duties in 2020 resulted in strained family ties.

Still, after the Queen’s passing in September 2022, Harry honoured her in a heartfelt tribute, calling her a “guiding compass.”

“Granny, while this final parting brings us great sadness, I am forever grateful for all of our first meetings - from my earliest childhood memories with you, to meeting you for the first time as my Commander-in-Chief, to the first moment you met my darling wife and hugged your beloved great-grandchildren,” he wrote.

Harry added that he took comfort knowing his grandmother was reunited in peace with Prince Philip.

The Queen’s undying love for her grandsons

Queen Elizabeth II consistently tried her best to balance her dual role as monarch and grandmother. 

She rarely spoke publicly about family matters, but when she did, her words carried weight.

Following Harry and Meghan’s departure from royal duties, she issued a statement emphasising unity and harmony.

“Harry, Meghan, and Archie will always be much loved members of my family,” Queen Elizabeth II wrote.