Hold on to your hats, folks! In a candid interview with the Mail on Sunday, Prince Harry opens up about a pivotal moment in his life when he considered stepping away from the royal family to live a life free from the spotlight.
"There was a time I felt I wanted out," the 32-year-old prince admitted. "But then I decided to stay in [the monarchy] and work out a role for myself." Imagine that—someone who could have everything, choosing to walk away from it all for something simpler. It's a fascinating perspective from a man who's lived a life under constant scrutiny.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the courage it takes to share such personal thoughts. It’s not every day that a member of the royal family reveals such intimate feelings about their role. Harry’s honesty provides a rare glimpse into the pressures of royal life and the internal struggles that come with it.
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Why Prince Philip Isn’t King: A Fascinating Royal Mystery
In case you're wondering why Prince Philip isn’t king, despite being married to Queen Elizabeth II, it's a common question with a fascinating answer. Traditionally, the title of king is reserved for those who inherit the throne, not spouses. So, while Prince Philip has played a vital role in supporting the queen, he remains a prince, not a king. But that's a story for another day.
Harry’s time in the Army, spanning over a decade, played a crucial role in helping him feel more grounded. He shared, "I wasn’t a Prince, I was just Harry." Being in the army gave him a sense of normalcy and purpose that he cherished. "Being in the army was the best escape I’ve ever had. I felt as though I was really achieving something," he said. Can you imagine the freedom that must have felt like, even if just for a little while?
Just a few weeks ago, Harry made headlines again when he told Newsweek that no one in the royal family actually wants to take the throne. That’s a bold statement, especially coming from someone who's fifth in line to inherit it. He emphasized that the family is focused on modernizing the monarchy for the greater good of the people. "Is there any one of the royal family who wants to be king or queen? I don’t think so, but we will carry out our duties at the right time," he told the magazine.
Controversy Surrounding Harry’s Statement
This revelation could stir up some controversy, as it marks the first time a royal has openly expressed reluctance to ascend to the throne. It’s a bold move, and it’s not surprising that it’s making waves in the media. For someone who’s spent their entire life preparing for this role, admitting that you don’t want it is a significant admission. It speaks to the immense pressure and responsibility that comes with the crown.
Harry with members of his royal family in June 2017. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
Harry also spoke candidly about the 1997 funeral of his mother, Princess Diana, where the 12-year-old prince walked behind her coffin alongside his brother, father, grandfather, and uncle. He expressed how difficult it was for him as a child, saying, "My mother had just died, and I had to walk a long way behind her coffin, surrounded by thousands of people watching me while millions more did on television. I don’t think any child should be asked to do that, under any circumstances. I don’t think it would happen today." That’s a powerful statement, showing the lasting impact such events can have on a person.
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Prince Harry’s Journey Toward Normalcy
Harry’s journey toward living an ordinary life is inspiring. He shared with the magazine that he does his own shopping and worries about being snapped with a phone while out. But he remains determined to live a relatively normal life, and if he’s lucky enough to have children, he wants them to have a normal life too. "Even if I was king, I would do my own shopping," he joked. That’s a man who truly values his independence and the simple pleasures in life.
This story originally appeared on Grazia Daily.
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