In his new memoir “Spare,” Prince Harry has disclosed a startling conversation with his favorite Palace aide Marko, where he learned that his father, King Charles, supported the notion that his younger son is hooked on drugs. According to Harry, Marko told him that a newspaper editor believed him to be a drug addict and planned to publish the story. Harry suggested Marko tell the editor that she had it wrong, but the editor refused to believe him a moment of hope, Harry turned to Marko and asked if his father could do something to stop the story from being published. But Marko responded that the Palace had opted for a different approach and was “going full Neville Chamberlain,” referring to the former British Prime Minister who infamously appeased Adolf Hitler before World War II.
The revelation is likely to fuel speculation about the tension between Prince Harry and the rest of the royal family, particularly his father. It also sheds light on the difficult relationship between the media and the royals, who have long been the subject of intense scrutiny and speculation.
The news of King Charles’ alleged support for the drug addiction story is especially surprising given that Prince Harry has been open about his struggles with addiction and mental health. In a recent interview with Oprah Winfrey, he spoke candidly about his decision to seek therapy and how it has helped him cope with the trauma of his mother’s death and the pressures of royal life.
Some have criticized the Palace’s decision to “play ball” with the editor rather than standing up for Prince Harry and setting the record straight. Others have suggested that the royals are simply trying to avoid further negative press and protect their image.
The revelation is sure to generate further interest in Prince Harry’s memoir, which has already caused controversy for its frank discussion of his relationship with his family and his decision to step back from royal duties.
