For years, Anne reportedly found Camilla’s cold and distant demeanor difficult to reconcile with her own more straightforward and reserved nature.
Princess Anne’s early opposition to Camilla becoming Queen consort is well-documented, with some suggesting that Anne was particularly vocal in her resistance.
In fact, it’s claimed that Anne once bluntly predicted that “Camilla will never truly be Queen.”
The history between Anne and Camilla is further complicated by their shared connection to Andrew Parker Bowles, Camilla’s former husband.
Interestingly, Anne is said to have briefly dated Andrew Parker Bowles back in the 1970s, but due to his Catholic faith, their relationship was never going to lead to marriage, as royal protocol dictates that a member of the royal family cannot marry a Catholic. This history adds a tricky layer to their relationship, with both women having been involved with the same man at different points in their lives.
This shift in Camilla’s public perception has also affected her relationship with Anne. Over the years, Anne has reportedly softened her stance, seeing firsthand how hard Camilla has worked for the monarchy. Levan notes that Anne, who has always prided herself on her work ethic and commitment to royal duties, recognized that Camilla had been thrust into a challenging position—forced to prove her worth to the nation after her marriage to Charles.
This evolving dynamic between Harry and the royal family is indicative of the ongoing tensions within the monarchy. At one time, Harry was one of the most popular and beloved members of the royal family, even widely seen as one of its brightest stars. Yet, in recent years, his relationship with the family has become strained, particularly as he and Meghan Markle distanced themselves from royal duties and publicly criticized the institution.