During the planning of Princess Diana's funeral, Earl Spencer stood up for his nephew, Prince Harry, against a decision that would have had him walk behind his mother's coffin. Earl Spencer, who shares a close bond with Harry, believed it was too distressing for the young boys and vehemently opposed the idea.
Recalling the incident in his memoir "Spare," Harry recounted how his uncle protested, deeming the plan "barbaric." Earl Spencer insisted, "You can't make these boys walk behind their mother's coffin!" This outcry led to a revised plan where both Harry and his older brother, Prince William, would walk behind the coffin, despite objections.
Reflecting on the situation, Harry expressed his gratitude that he and William faced the ordeal together. He acknowledged his uncle's fierce defense, recognizing that had the roles been reversed, William would have similarly refused to let Harry face it alone.
Earl Spencer's recent reunion with Harry at St Paul's Cathedral for an Invictus Games anniversary service suggests a continued solidarity between them. According to royal expert Tom Quinn, this display of support underscores the lingering bitterness within the Spencer family towards the royal establishment. Like Harry, they perceive the Royal Family, to some extent, as adversaries, reflecting a complex and enduring sentiment.
