Prince Harry Reportedly in Tears After King Charles Grants Prince William a New Royal Title

Prince Harry is reportedly emotional after learning that his older brother, Prince William, has received a new military title previously held by the Duke of Sussex. The appointment, announced by Buckingham Palace, designates William as the new Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps.

Prince Harry seen with his head in his hands during the England vs Australia match at the Rugby World Cup on October 3, 2015, in London, England | Source: Getty Images

The news has stirred strong reactions, particularly because the role held deep significance for Prince Harry. According to royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams, the title change hit hard. “It’s a real blow for Harry, who always felt pushed aside. And now, seeing the honor passed to the very person he sees as part of the problem—his brother—makes it even more painful,” he explained.

King Charles III and Prince William ahead of the Committal Service for the late Queen Elizabeth II on September 19, 2022, in Windsor, England | Source: Getty Images

Harry is said to have been brought to tears upon hearing the announcement, with insiders suggesting that senior royals were aware the decision would be hurtful but believed the time had come to move forward decisively.

Fitzwilliams added that Harry must now accept the loss of both duties he disliked and roles he cherished. Among those cherished titles was his position as Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps, which reflected his proud military background.

Prince Harry at the Invictus Games Foundation 10th Anniversary Service at St Paul’s Cathedral on May 8, 2024, in London, England | Source: Getty Images

Harry once described his service as a rare period in his life where he was judged for his actions, not his status. That connection has now been severed as the May 13, 2024, handover ceremony approaches.

Still, Prince Harry made a quiet but symbolic statement days before the official handover. At the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games on May 9, 2024, at St. Paul’s Cathedral, he wore his KCVO Neck Order and Star—an honor bestowed by Queen Elizabeth II.

Prince Harry during a service for the reception of Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin on September 14, 2022, in London, England | Source: Getty Images

Royal author Tom Quinn viewed Harry’s gesture as a silent protest, saying, “Wearing that medal was his way of saying, ‘You’ve taken everything else from me, but this remains. This came from my grandmother.’”

Despite the personal sting of the title handover, Prince Harry’s ties to the Armed Forces remain strong. He served for a decade, including two tours in Afghanistan, earning respect for his service beyond royal duties.

Prince Harry gathering with fellow service personnel for a Remembrance Sunday service on November 9, 2014, in Kandahar, Afghanistan | Source: Getty Images

The timing of the title change has raised eyebrows. Harry’s relationship with King Charles has been tense, and no meeting took place between them during Harry’s May 2024 visit to the U.K.—something the public noted with disappointment.

A spokesperson for Harry confirmed that the Duke would not see his father due to the King’s full schedule, though Harry expressed understanding.

King Charles III and Prince Harry having a conversation during the the Opening Ceremony of the Invictus Games on September 10, 2014, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Still, many were critical. “That’s absolutely unforgivable,” one social media user said. Others accused the King of choosing duty over family and pointed to a longstanding pattern of emotional distance.

While King Charles resumed royal duties during Harry’s visit, including meetings and garden parties, Harry also kept busy with the Invictus Games.

King Charles III and the Prime Minister of Fiji Sitiveni Rabuka during an audience at Buckingham Palace on May 7, 2024, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

As for William, the new military title has only widened the emotional gap between the brothers. In a recent interview, Harry acknowledged the ongoing tension, saying Princess Diana would likely be saddened by their estrangement but would want healing over time.

As the royal rift deepens, Harry’s quiet gestures—like his choice of medal—serve as reminders of his legacy, service, and continued search for connection in a family that feels increasingly distant.