Prince Harry’s decision to step away from royal life continues to spark debate years after his exit from the monarchy.
Now, royal historian Hugo Vickers believes the Duke of Sussex bears a striking resemblance to another royal who walked away from duty for love. Scroll down for more details.
Why Hugo Vickers Sees Similarities Between Prince Harry And Edward VIII
Hugo Vickers, author of Behind Closed Doors, recently reflected on the lives of Prince Harry and Edward VIII while discussing his new book about the Duchess of Windsor. According to the royal historian, the strongest parallel is not between Meghan Markle and Wallis Simpson, but between the royal husbands who chose a different path from the one expected of them.
“… The one thing in common is that the two husbands both look pretty miserable,” Vickers claimed. “If you look at photographs of the Duke of Windsor in old age … I’ve never seen such sad eyes on a man because of what happened. In both cases, they decided not to do the duty which they had been born to undertake.”
Vickers said the contrast becomes even more noticeable when comparing Edward VIII with Queen Elizabeth II, who spent her life fulfilling royal obligations. He argued that a sense of purpose and duty can be seen in the late monarch’s appearance, while Edward appeared burdened by the consequences of his choices.
“When I give talks occasionally, usually at schools, I show a picture of the queen, our Queen Elizabeth II, with sparkling eyes at the age of 90, having done her duty and feeling the calm, level gaze, conscious of duty fulfilled, as somebody put it,” he said. “Whereas the Duke of Windsor looked pathetic, and he looked very sad. And Prince Harry also looks very, very sad most of the time and rather angry.”
Signs That Harry May Still Miss His Former Role
Prince Harry and Meghan stepped back as senior working royals in 2020, citing intense media intrusion and a lack of support from palace officials. Since then, the couple have built a new life in California and pursued independent projects while publicly discussing their experiences within the royal family.
Despite that fresh start, some commentators believe Harry still feels connected to the role he left behind. British broadcaster and photographer Helena Chard argued that while both Harry and Edward wanted to leave royal restrictions behind, freedom has not necessarily brought lasting peace of mind.
“The tides have possibly changed,” said Chard. “Harry and Meghan built their exit. However, it doesn’t guarantee safety or peace. Prince Harry continuously worries about Meghan, his family, their safety and media backlash. He seems to be reverting to what he knows and enjoys, his previous royal life.”
Much like Edward VIII decades earlier, Harry may have gained the freedom he sought while still carrying thoughts of the royal path he chose to leave behind. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for more Royal news and updates.