Recent whispers have surfaced regarding the duke’s desire to reconcile with the king and prince, prompting the monarch to take decisive action regarding the duke’s role within the royal family.
Despite battling cancer, the king has found himself at the center of numerous accusations from his estranged son.
While the king offered a brief but telling response about the duke during a public engagement last year, he has largely kept his thoughts to himself, even in light of his son’s public remarks.
During a recent visit to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the University of East London, the king took a moment to greet students and admirers gathered to see him.
In an unexpected turn, one individual called out, urging the king to restore the duke to his “rightful place.”
Initially taken aback, the king asked, “Who?”
When the man clarified, referring to the duke as his son, the king’s reaction was swift and emotional.
“It would be nice,” he muttered before quickly turning away, leaving many to speculate about the depth of their strained relationship.
Reports suggest that the duke’s ties with the royal family have become increasingly tenuous since he and the duchess stepped back from their royal duties in 2020.
The duke has been vocal in his criticism of the king, leveling various accusations against him over the years.
Despite this, the king has remained mostly silent, choosing to focus on his health and the challenges he faces.
Amidst these familial tensions, insiders reveal that the king is contemplating the potential benefits of mending fences for the sake of the royal family’s public image.
The father of two is reportedly feeling isolated in the United States, where he resides in a lavish mansion in Montecito, California.
This loneliness seems to weigh heavily on him, as he grapples with the pressures of his situation.
Although the duke may be yearning to return to the UK and reconnect with his family, he is also acutely aware of the impact that such a move could have on his children and the duchess.
Their presence provides him with a sense of stability and joy, making the thought of leaving them behind particularly daunting.
Sources close to the duke indicate that he has expressed a desire to return home, but the uncertainty surrounding the royal family’s reception looms large.
Conversations between the duke and the king have reportedly taken place in private, with heartfelt pleas for reconciliation.
However, the king’s apprehension about potentially losing his son complicates the matter further.
The stakes are high, as the possibility of the king’s passing adds urgency to the situation, leaving the duke grappling with feelings of loss and regret.
Earlier this year, the duke spoke candidly about his father’s battle with cancer, suggesting that this difficult period might serve as a catalyst for healing old wounds within the family.
“I love my family,” he stated, expressing gratitude for the chance to reconnect with his father during his visit to the UK.