Exposed: Prince Harry's childhood struggle against 'forced rivalry' with brother William
Prince Harry's autobiography has generated extensive commentary from media and experts globally. He's disrupted the British royal family's life, and its members have not officially commented on his disclosures. Paul Burrell, Princess Diana's former butler and close associate, suggests that Prince Harry's anger has a basis. While he affirms that Diana did not want to dismantle the royal family, he acknowledges situations in Harry and William's childhood that incited their rivalry early on.
Jan 30, 2024 | updated: 4:39 AM EST, March 7, 2024
Prince Harry may have felt "less important"
In an interview with "The Sun", Paul Burrell recalled an incident from the princes' childhood that underscored William receiving preferential treatment because he was expected to succeed the British throne. William, even as a child, was supposedly given a larger breakfast serving than Harry.
"One day, I saw the nanny give William three sausages for breakfast, while Harry only received two. Harry then asked: 'Why does William get three and I only two?'" Burrell shared with "The Sun".
"William needs a larger breakfast than you because one day he'll be king," was reportedly the nanny's response to the princes.
Paul Burrell, who served Princess Diana for a decade leading up to her death in 1997, asserts that this incident exemplifies what Prince Harry had to grapple with since childhood. This may have contributed to the anger and resentment he now harbors towards not only his brother but also the rest of the family.
In mother's eyes, they were absolutely equal
Paul Burrell stated that Princess Diana was aware of how her younger son was treated. She intended to protect Harry from feeling second-rate. Reportedly, the princess did not want Harry to attend William's school, Eton. According to Burrell, she pleaded with Prince Charles not to send Harry to the same school fearing he would always live in his older brother's shadow.
"In her eyes, they were absolutely equal," Paul Burrell told "The Sun".
Regrettably, Princess Diana's wishes were not respected, leading Prince Harry to find his own ways to attract attention, often adopting the role of the louder, more rebellious prince.
