A trusted aide to King Charles III has reportedly made it his mission to heal the long-standing rift between Princes William and Harry, aiming to spare the monarch further emotional distress.
Theo Rycroft's role in reconciliation
Theo Rycroft, a former diplomat appointed as the King's private secretary in December 2024, is said to be gaining influence within the royal inner circle. According to sources cited by the Mail, Mr Rycroft believes the estrangement between the brothers has become "f*****g ridiculous" and is determined to resolve it.
"He thinks it's time to knock their heads together," a source said. "The mood is, 'He's not wrong'." The feud, which has persisted since the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, reportedly causes the King "great pain".
Background and diplomatic experience
Mr Rycroft previously served as a diplomat in the Foreign Office, notably as minister and deputy head of mission at the British Embassy in Paris from 2021 to 2025. He is married to Flora Astor, a member of the prominent Astor family and half-sister of Samantha Cameron, wife of former Prime Minister David Cameron.
Described as a calm and shrewd operator, Mr Rycroft is believed to be close to Prince William, having worked with him on high-profile engagements, including a meeting with Donald Trump during the reopening of the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Palace confidence and potential meeting
Both Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace are said to be pleased with Mr Rycroft's handling of diplomatic challenges, particularly during the King and Queen's state visit to the US last month. "Theo believes that Harry and William need to be forced to shake hands and allow Charles to repair his relationship with Harry," the source added.
Whether Mr Rycroft can persuade the feuding brothers remains uncertain. There are suggestions the King may meet with Harry when he visits the UK next year for the Invictus Games in Birmingham. The source noted that Mr Rycroft would not be among aides blocking such a meeting, adding that he "may be outnumbered" but "after the US visit he is the most respected man in the building right now".
William, meanwhile, is alleged to have banned any mention of Harry following the release of his memoir Spare and the fallout from the Sussexes' departure from royal life. During an interview with Oprah Winfrey, Harry and Meghan Markle accused an unnamed royal of racism.
