Book Details William, Kate Reactions to Harry's Exit

A new book by royal author Russell Myers reveals that Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, reacted differently to Prince Harry's decision to step back from senior royal duties in January 2020. While William was deeply saddened by his brother's departure, Catherine showed less interest in urging him to remain, viewing the move as inevitable given their contrasting roles in the monarchy.

The biography, titled "William and Catherine: The Monarchy's New Era: The Inside Story," examines the couple's nearly 25-year relationship alongside the widening rift between the brothers. Set for release in the United States on March 10, 2026, the book draws on insights from those close to the family. Myers writes that Catherine recognized the fundamental differences between William, as the heir to the throne, and Harry, often referred to as the "spare." She believed these distinctions made Harry's desire for a more prominent role unsustainable. "She believed William and Harry's fundamental differences as the heir and the spare had created the inevitability of Harry wanting more from his role than being a bit-part player," Myers notes in an excerpt.