On March 9, the Queen broke her silence on the issues Meghan and Harry raised. “The whole family is saddened to learn the full extent of how challenging the last few years have been for Harry and Meghan,” Buckingham Palace said in a statement on her behalf. “The issues raised, particularly that of race, are concerning. While some recollections may vary, they are taken very seriously and will be addressed by the family privately. Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much loved family members.”
Later that week, Prince William spoke out during a public appearance where he met with teachers impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. He told reporters, “We are very much not a racist family,” and stated that he had yet to speak with his brother.
Prince Phillip’s death in April reunited the family, save for Meghan, who was at home resting ahead of daughter Lilibet Diana‘s June arrival. Following the funeral, Scobie wrote for Bazaar.com that the gathering “broke the ice for future conversations” among Prince Charles, Prince William and Prince Harry.
