Prince Harry’s emotional speech that left Kate Middleton in tears

Once known for his humour and heartfelt bond with his brother and sister-in-law, Prince Harry’s past moments with Prince William and Princess Kate now stand in stark contrast to the strained reality of today.

Here are the standout memories and revelations from biographer Christopher Andersen’s Brothers and Wives and eyewitness accounts.

1. Harry Once Made Kate Cry

During his best man’s speech at William and Kate’s wedding, Harry confessed how much their romance inspired him in his own love life.

According to a source, “Kate cried” when Harry praised her marriage as a beacon of hope.

2. The “Dude and the Duchess” Nickname

In a lighthearted jab, Harry described William and Kate as “the dude and the duchess,” a playful nickname that drew laughter from the guests.

He also teased William about going bald and poked fun at his affectionate pet name for Kate, “Babykins.”

3. A Touching Tribute to Princess Diana

Perhaps the most moving part of Harry’s speech came when he turned emotional about their late mother. As Christopher Andersen wrote, “There were muffled sobs when Harry told his brother, ‘Our mother would be so very proud of you,’ and sighs when he said he loved Kate like a sister.”

4. Calling William the “Ideal Brother”

A guest later recalled Harry’s heartfelt words, “Harry said William was the ideal brother. It was just the kind of best man’s speech everyone hoped for. He filled it with jokes about William, repeatedly calling him a ‘dude’ and laughing as he kept saying, ‘What a dude.’”

5. From Joyful Banter to Deep Estrangement

What once symbolised a tight-knit royal bond has now untraveled. Fourteen years later, Harry and William, 43, are reportedly “deeply estranged.” 

Their relationship has been marred by Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to step back from royal duties in 2020, followed by their move to California and a wave of public revelations, from the Oprah interview to Netflix’s Harry & Meghan and Harry’s memoir Spare.

6. A Stark Contrast to Today

Harry’s words of love and admiration for William and Kate stand in painful contrast to the bitterness of the present. The Duke of Sussex’s recent reunion with his cancer-stricken father, King Charles, at Clarence House underscores the fragile state of royal family ties today.