The royal family has long been a fixture of public interest, with thousands of engagements taking place each year both within the UK and globally.

Traditionally, the spotlight has shone brightly on four young royals, but since 2018, much has changed.

With Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepping back from royal duties to establish their lives in America, the focus has shifted to the Prince and Princess of Wales.

This past year has proven especially challenging for the monarchy.

With fewer family members participating in public duties, there has been increased scrutiny on those who remain active, notably Prince William and Catherine Middleton. As the family navigates ongoing challenges, Harry has garnered attention for his legal battles rather than royal engagements.

Recent reports reveal the toll that media attention has taken on the Wales family, particularly as William has watched his wife endure similar paparazzi scrutiny that plagued his late mother, Princess Diana. A source close to the couple described William as being “overcome with anger and frustration,” highlighting the emotional weight of their situation.

However, in a notable gesture of goodwill, both William and Catherine took to social media to wish Harry a happy 40th birthday. This move follows a similar message from King Charles, which some view as a significant olive branch in their fractured relationship. Yet, not all royal fans were pleased. Many expressed disappointment, arguing that Harry’s past behavior towards his family warrants a more reserved approach.

“Harry doesn’t deserve your best wishes after everything he’s done to his family in the last five years,” one fan commented, reflecting a common sentiment among those loyal to the Waleses. Despite this division, a well-placed source indicated that the King is planning to reach out to Harry via Skype on Sunday afternoon, aiming to reconnect with his son as he wakes up in California.

While it appears there might be room for reconciliation, experts note the complexities involved. The brothers’ relationship has been strained not only on a personal level but also within the institutional context of the monarchy. “Things could well be much more challenging,” one royal commentator remarked. “They haven’t found peace, and their lives are very separate now.”

What a difference a few years can make. When Harry celebrated his 30th birthday, he and William seemed inseparable, poised to usher in a new era for the monarchy. The weddings of William and Catherine in 2011 and Harry and Meghan in 2018 sparked hopes of a more modern and relatable royal family. For a time, the “Fab Four” appeared to champion issues important to younger generations, including mental health.

Yet now, the brothers reportedly did not interact at a family funeral last month, a stark contrast to their previous camaraderie during milestone celebrations. As Harry’s big day arrives, expectations for a heartfelt call from William seem dim, underscoring the ongoing divide between the two.

As the royal family continues to evolve, the narrative surrounding them remains one of both hope and tension, leaving many to wonder if and when healing will take place.