In the fascinating world of the British Royal Family, every word and every gesture is often scrutinized, amplified, and remembered. Yet, even among the most composed and stoic figures, there are moments of raw, unfiltered candor that truly capture the public imagination. We’re diving into one such moment, a revelation from an upcoming memoir that sheds new light on the late Prince Philip’s famously sharp wit and his private feelings following one of the most talked-about royal events of recent memory: the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
This isn’t just about a single comment; it’s about understanding the Duke of Edinburgh’s remarkable character, his complex relationships within the family, and his unique perspective on a rapidly changing monarchy. Through the pages of a highly anticipated new book, we’re offered a rare glimpse behind the palace doors, promising to bring to life the very human reactions of those at the heart of the royal narrative. Prepare to explore the candid insights, the significant moments, and the lasting impressions left by one of royalty’s most memorable figures.
As a senior media editor, I’m thrilled to bring you an in-depth look at these stories, framed in the engaging and conversational style you’d expect from a publication like People Magazine. We’ll unpack the context surrounding these revelations, offering a comprehensive narrative that’s both informative and accessible, replete with compelling details and direct quotes that add immediate authenticity to the story. Join us as we explore the various facets of Prince Philip’s reactions and the events that shaped this pivotal period for the Royal Family.
1. **The Four-Word Remark Heard Around the World: Prince Philip’s Candid Wedding Day Comment**The most striking revelation from the forthcoming memoir by former royal butler Grant Harrold centers around a now-infamous four-word comment made by Prince Philip. According to an excerpt published by The Telegraph, Harrold recounts the moment after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s nuptials concluded in 2018. As the royal family filed out of St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle, Philip, known for his no-nonsense nature and quick wit, turned to Queen Elizabeth II and uttered, “Thank f–k that’s over.”
This blunt and unvarnished remark immediately captures attention, highlighting Philip’s reputation for not holding back when it came to sharing his true feelings. It offers a fascinating, almost humorous, insight into the personal relief he may have felt once the grand formalities of the lavish ceremony were complete. The quote, direct and unmistakable, has quickly become a focal point of discussions surrounding the new book, painting a vivid picture of a deeply private moment shared between the monarch and her consort.
2. **The Royal Butler’s Unveiling: Grant Harrold’s Memoir ‘The Royal Butler’**The source of these captivating revelations is Grant Harrold’s upcoming memoir, titled “The Royal Butler: My Remarkable Life in Royal Service.” This book promises to offer an insider’s perspective on the Royal Family, drawing from Harrold’s seven years of service at the Highgrove Estate between 2004 and 2011. His unique vantage point, having worked for King Charles (then Prince Charles) during a significant period, lends particular weight to his observations and anecdotes.
Scheduled to hit shelves in September, Harrold’s memoir is generating considerable buzz for its candid disclosures. His account of Prince Philip’s wedding remark is just one example of the intimate details the book is expected to contain, giving readers an unprecedented look into the daily lives and private moments of the royals he served. The publication is poised to become a must-read for anyone fascinated by the inner workings of the British monarchy, delivering fresh insights through the eyes of someone who was truly there.
3. **The Grand Royal Spectacle: Harry and Meghan’s 2018 Nuptials**Before the now-famous remark, there was the highly anticipated event itself: the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on May 19, 2018. The ceremony, held in the historic St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle, was a global spectacle, watched by millions around the world. It was a lavish affair, attended by key members of the Royal Family, including both Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, who were present to witness their grandson exchange vows.
The wedding was notable for its blend of traditional royal grandeur and modern touches, featuring elements such as a passionate 14-minute sermon by Bishop Michael Curry and a performance of “Stand By Me” by a gospel choir. The day unfolded with all the pomp and circumstance expected of a royal wedding, from the filing out of the happy couple and other members of the Royal Family from the chapel to the subsequent carriage ride around Windsor. It was a monumental day, marking a new chapter for the monarchy and for the couple, who were then at the height of public affection.
4. **The Path to ‘Megxit’: Harry and Meghan’s Decision to Step Back from Royal Duties**Just under two years after their fairytale wedding, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made the controversial decision to announce their intention to leave their duties as senior royal family members. This momentous announcement came in January 2020 and quickly became known as “Megxit.” The couple’s move to step back from royal life and relocate to California, where they are now raising their children, Prince Archie, 6, and Princess Lilibet, 4, sent shockwaves through the monarchy and around the globe.
This decision marked a significant turning point in their lives and in their relationship with the Royal Family, leading to widely publicized tensions and a reported rift with Prince William and King Charles. The choice to forge an independent path away from the strictures of royal protocol was a bold one, fundamentally altering their roles and responsibilities. This shift from full-time working royals to a more private life in the United States dramatically contrasted with the public’s initial expectations following their grand wedding.
5. **Philip’s Hands-Off Approach: Understanding Harry’s Need to ‘Do Things His Own Way’**While Prince Philip reportedly did not agree with Harry and Meghan’s decision to step back from royal duties, he famously steered clear of getting directly involved in the unfolding drama of “Megxit.” This hands-off approach was characteristic of the Duke, who often preferred to allow others to navigate their own paths, even when he harbored reservations. According to royal biographer Gyles Brandreth, Philip understood that “people have to lead their lives as they think best.”
This perspective reveals a pragmatic and philosophical side to Prince Philip, acknowledging the personal agency of individuals within the family, even if their choices diverged from traditional royal expectations. His willingness to observe rather than intervene, despite his reported disagreement, speaks volumes about his respect for individual autonomy. It underscores a deeper understanding that, for Harry, charting his own course was a fundamental personal need, a sentiment Philip recognized and, in his own way, accommodated.
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6. **A ‘Good Man’: Prince Philip’s Affection and Sympathy for Prince Harry**Despite the complexities and the public scrutiny surrounding Harry’s decisions, Prince Philip reportedly maintained a clear and affectionate view of his grandson. Royal biographer Gyles Brandreth indicated that Philip thought of Harry as a “good man.” This heartfelt assessment highlights a deep underlying bond between the grandfather and grandson, transcending any disagreements over royal protocols or choices.
Furthermore, Philip was said to be sympathetic to Harry’s inherent need to “do things his own way.” This understanding suggests a recognition of Harry’s independent spirit and desire for self-determination, qualities that perhaps Philip, in his own storied life, could relate to. It paints a picture of a grandfather who, while observing from a distance, harbored a genuine appreciation for Harry’s character and his drive to forge his own path, even when it led him away from traditional royal life.
