Behind the red carpet shows, well wishes during public appearances around the world, and the occasional glimpse into their private lives during candid interviews with the press, it’s very rare to gain insight into what happens behind closed doors in the Royal Family, let alone how they actually feel when it comes to dealing with public scrutiny.
It’s a subject Prince Harry and Prince William have increasingly opened up about in recent years, with the Duke of Cambridge recently admitting the publication of topless photographs of his wife Catherine in France’s Closer magazine brought back distressing memories of the ‘harassment’ suffered by his mother Princess Diana.
Related article: Is Meghan Markle Richer Than Prince Harry?
And now that it has almost been a year since Prince Harry began dating Suits actress Meghan Markle – with a relationship that has already seen the 35-year-old’s family dramas, struggles with her biracial identity, and divorce from television producer Trevor Engelson examined and publicised – Prince Albert of Monaco is providing some words of wisdom.
The heir to the Monaco throne, whose mother was American actress Grace Kelly shared a similar career and personal life trajectory to Meghan before marrying Prince Rainier, told People: ‘The only kind of advice I can offer is the British expression: “Keep calm and carry on”‘.
Learning royal protocol, coupled with the intrusive nature of the press, “is a pretty tough act”, the Prince admitted. “Especially in the British royal family, which is scrutinised by the press as no one’s been.”
Related article: What Will Meghan Markle’s Engagement Ring Look Like If Prince Harry Proposes?
Admitting he believed Harry and Meghan “seem to be having a good deal of success so far”, he warned that “sooner or later, [Meghan is] going to have to face the full onslaught”.
“Being an actress, in a way, gets you a little prepared but nothing really can prepare you for the constant pace of it. Particularly now that the pace has changed so much. It’s hard for anyone to handle,” he added.
“It was difficult for Charlene to handle,” he admits, referring to his wife and former Olympic swimmer, Princess Charlene. “I can’t imagine the difference now with the increased pace of news and social media.”
Related article: Here’s What Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Wedding Might Be Like
The prince lost his mother Princess Grace in 1982 following a car accident in Monaco and shared some of her sage advice when it comes to dealing with a high profile life in the media.
“Mum taught us that you have to do all you can to protect your private life,” he said.
“But you also have to face the press at some points. When we went on family holidays together, we would take an hour on the first morning and give that to the photographers. We let them have that hour and in return they would let us go on with our lives during the vacation.”
From: Harper’s BAZAAR UK
