Father’s Day is often a time for reflection and gratitude. For many, it offers a chance to reconnect with loved ones.
But sometimes, it also brings unresolved emotions to the surface—especially in families navigating tension.
This year, the British royal family marked the occasion with a tribute that stirred both nostalgia and quiet speculation.
King Charles honoured his late father, Prince Philip, and Bruce Shand, Queen Camilla’s father, with heartfelt tributes.
Yet noticeably absent from his message was any reference to his own sons—particularly Prince Harry, with whom tensions reportedly remain high.
The royal family’s official social media accounts shared a nostalgic black-and-white photo of a young Charles and Princess Anne being pushed on a swing by Prince Philip.
It was accompanied by a wedding day image of Queen Camilla with her father from 2005.
The caption read simply: ‘To all Dads everywhere, we wish you a happy Father’s Day today.’
But royal observers couldn’t help but notice what was missing—any mention of Prince William or Prince Harry.
A family divided
This omission followed Prince Harry’s candid interview with the BBC, in which he confirmed ongoing distance between him and his father.
‘Of course, some members of my family will never forgive me for writing a book. Of course they will never forgive me for lots of things,’ Harry admitted, referencing his memoir and the continuing rift.
‘But you know, there is. I would love reconciliation with my family. I’ve always, you know, there’s no point in continuing to fight anymore.’
His remarks reflected a mixture of hope and resignation.
‘As I said, life is precious. I don’t know how much longer my father has,’ he shared.
‘You know, he won’t speak to me because of this security stuff. But it would be nice to. It would be nice to reconcile.’
The ‘security stuff’ refers to Harry’s extended legal battle to secure police protection during visits to the United Kingdom—a case he recently lost.
He has expressed concern about bringing Meghan, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet to Britain without sufficient security measures in place.
This issue has further widened the divide between him and the royal household.
A tale of two Father’s Days
While King Charles’s tribute was formal and respectful, the Prince and Princess of Wales opted for a more personal message.
Their post featured a sunlit photo of Prince William with George, Charlotte and Louis, along with the message: ‘Happy Father’s Day, Papa (before and after!) We love you! G, C & L.’
A second candid, black-and-white photo showed the four laughing together in a garden.
It was an intimate and joyful moment rarely shared with the public. The contrast between the two tributes was stark.
William’s family exuded warmth and connection, while Charles’s post—though loving—appeared weighed down by unspoken family complexities.
The royal family’s public face
Despite the private tensions, the royal family maintained a united image at Trooping the Colour, the official celebration of the monarch’s birthday held on 14 June. All senior working royals attended.
King Charles and Queen Camilla led the proceedings, with Prince William, Princess Anne and Prince Edward participating in the parade on horseback.
The Princess of Wales, still recovering from recent health challenges, joined the procession by carriage with her children.
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, rode alongside Vice Admiral Timothy Laurence.
The day concluded with the traditional balcony appearance at Buckingham Palace, where the family watched the Red Arrows fly past—a symbolic moment of public unity.
Father’s Day down under
In Australia, Father’s Day is celebrated on the first Sunday in September.
It’s a special time for gatherings, sharing stories, and honouring the quiet strength of father figures everywhere.
Though the royal family’s challenges may feel distant, the themes of love, longing, and hope for reconciliation resonate with families across the world.
Your turn: A moment for reflection—and celebration
Father’s Day offers a meaningful reminder of the special role fathers, grandfathers and father figures play in our lives—whether in the public eye or in quiet, everyday moments.
While royal tributes often capture headlines, the heart of the day belongs to all those who guide, support and show up with love in big and small ways.
What are your thoughts on the recent Father’s Day tributes shared by members of the royal family? Do you think public gestures like these offer insight, or do they simply reflect the role of duty and protocol? Feel free to share your perspective in the comments below—we’d love to hear your take.
Also read: Change at royal event sparks fresh speculation on King Charles’ cancer battle
I don’t know why anyone would consider the King’s message controversial. It was anodyne, and simple. He honoured his father, father in law and fathers everywhere.
Charles is a father to the the Princes William and Harry. His message to fathers would include his two sons. It’s not necessary to mention sons on Fathers Day, it’s to recognise fatherhood.
I totally agree. The media pack loves to stir up controversy where the Royals are concerned. Anything to get a headline. It isn’t as if they are the only family on the planet that has family troubles.