Prince Harry’s reported plans for a documentary about Princess Diana could complicate hopes of reconciliation with Prince William, with royal commentators warning that a project centred on their late mother may reopen painful tensions ahead of the 30th anniversary of her death in 2027.
The brothers have been estranged for years, and speculation about a possible reunion has continued following Harry and Meghan Markle’s recent return to the UK for public engagements.
However, royal broadcaster Helena Chard believes the reported documentary plans could become a significant obstacle if Harry hopes to rebuild his relationship with William.
Speaking to Fox News Digital, Chard questioned the timing of the reported project and suggested it could create further strain between the brothers.
“I don’t buy this,” she said, before arguing that the documentary plans could overshadow any efforts to repair their relationship.
“This isn’t bridge building,” Chard added. “This is lobbing a grenade at Prince William’s feet.”
The commentator suggested William would be reluctant to see himself and Harry placed at the centre of renewed media attention surrounding their mother, particularly as the anniversary approaches.
According to Chard, people close to William believe the coming year will already be emotionally demanding, with the anniversary likely to bring fresh public interest in Diana’s life and legacy. “Prince William just wants to let his mother rest in peace,” she said.
William has previously kept a relatively cautious approach to projects revisiting his mother’s life, and Chard claimed he had declined several offers to make or appear in documentaries about Diana.
The expert also questioned whether Harry could demonstrate his commitment to reconciliation by reconsidering the reported project or directing any proceeds towards charity.
“If Harry wants reconciliation, can he not drop the film or give the proceeds to charity, which will change perception overnight?” Chard asked.
She added that she did not currently see clear signs of healing between the brothers, although she acknowledged that their relationship could change in the future.
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams also pointed to longstanding disagreements over the Sussexes’ use of their royal connections and their independent commercial activities.
“William deeply resents the way the Sussexes have monetized their royal connections,” Fitzwilliams said.
He argued that Harry and Meghan’s position outside the working monarchy gives them greater freedom to pursue independent projects, although that does not guarantee acceptance from other members of the Royal Family.
The reported documentary could therefore become another point of contention if it brings the brothers into renewed public comparison during the anniversary year.
However, the project’s details remain unclear, and there is no confirmation that a Diana documentary has been formally commissioned or that William has directly objected to it.
Princess Catherine has also been mentioned as someone who could potentially help ease tensions, given her close family ties and understanding of the importance of relationships. However, there is no confirmation that she is attempting to mediate between the brothers.
For now, reconciliation remains uncertain. Whether Harry’s reported plans concerning Diana affect that possibility will depend on what the project involves and how the brothers choose to handle their differences.
