Queen’s “mentor” relationship with Prince Harry remains strong despite royal exit

It’s reportedly “very important” for the Queen to touch base with her grandson

Queen Elizabeth II, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex watch a flypast to mark the centenary of the Royal Air Force from the balcony of Buckingham Palace on July 10, 2018 in London, England
(Image credit: Photo by Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)

The Queen’s close relationship with Prince Harry seems to have continued despite him stepping down as a senior member of the Royal Family. 

Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, announced their intention to step away from senior royal life in January 2020. Since then the royal couple has made the move to North America. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex reside in California with their son Archie Mountbatten-Windsor. There have been reports that the former so-called ‘Fab Four’ are set to reunite for a special event this year in honor of Prince William and Prince Harry’s late mother Princess Diana, travel restrictions permitting. 

However, it now seems that despite the geographical distance between Prince Harry and his family, they have actually been keeping close. A royal commentator has revealed that the Queen and her grandson the Duke of Sussex remained in contact throughout this challenging time.

Speaking to Entertainment Tonight, Katie Nicholl discussed how the Queen has video calls with him and that the monarch is always thrilled to see her great-grandson Archie.

Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex attend the Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on May 29, 2019 in London

(Image credit: Photo by Yui Mok - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

How is the relationship between the Queen and Prince Harry?

Royal Commentator Ms Nicholl spoke of how despite Prince Harry moving to California with Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, he remains in close contact with his grandmother Queen Elizabeth II. 

Remarking on who the Duke has been in touch with other than his brother Prince William, Ms Nicholl said that he "is in touch with his father, the Prince of Wales, and actually in quite regular contact with the Queen”. 

"She is always delighted to see Archie on video calls and it’s very important to her that she touches base with Harry”, Ms Nicholl revealed. “She is in touch with them, she knows what’s going on in their lives, they discuss their plans with her”.

"Harry has always seen his grandmother as a mentor and while he might be in LA, that hasn’t changed”.

It's believed that Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex intend to return to the UK for the Queen's 95th birthday celebrations and Prince Philip's 100th birthday, as well as the unveiling of a Princess Diana memorial statue this year.

Emma Shacklock

Emma is a Royal Editor with eight years experience working in publishing. Her specialist areas include the British Royal Family, ranging from protocol to outfits. Alongside putting her royal knowledge to good use, Emma knows all there is to know about the latest TV shows on the BBC, ITV and more. When she’s not writing about the next unmissable show to add to your to-watch list or delving into royal protocol, Emma enjoys cooking, long walks and watching yet more crime dramas!