The ongoing distance between the Cambridges and the Sussexes was highlighted as Meghan Markle reportedly turned down a kind gesture from Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge.
Following the birth of Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor on June 4 in California, Kate made multiple attempts to reach out to Meghan by sending notes and gifts.
However, according to American journalist Kinsey Schofield, Meghan rebuffed these efforts due to the persisting rift between the royal couples.
Schofield revealed that Kate had “aggressively reached out” to Meghan after Lilibet’s birth, only to be met with rejection.
Despite this, Christopher Anderson, an author and journalist, described Kate as a kind individual who often receives unfair criticism for being perceived as cold.
He noted that while Kate may appear reserved, she has a close-knit group of confidants and possibly saw a connection with Meghan through the birth of their children.
Reports indicated that no member of the royal family had met Lilibet yet, with Kate intensifying her outreach to Meghan following the birth of her daughter.
A royal insider disclosed that Kate had been sending notes and gifts in an attempt to foster a better relationship with Meghan, as instructed by the royal household to ease tensions with Harry and Meghan.
Speculation about a rift between the royal couples had circulated, but insiders clarified that the strained relationship primarily stemmed from issues between Prince Harry and Prince William.
Their communication had reportedly become sparse and strained, leading to animosity that spilled over into Meghan and Kate’s dynamic, hindering any potential friendship between the two duchesses.
Prince Harry had previously acknowledged the distance between himself and Prince William, emphasizing the challenges within the family dynamic during an interview with ITV before stepping back from official duties.
The Sussexes relocated to California post-announcement, with Harry making visits to the UK while Meghan remained in the US.
In a festive gesture, Kate orchestrated a Christmas carol concert at Westminster Abbey on December 8th, bringing together members of the royal family.
The event, spearheaded by Kate and attended by her children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, showcased a united front amidst underlying tensions within the royal household.