Prince Harry attacked over ‘suicidal wife’ claims

Royal Family
Joe Anderson
February 27, 2025
9 minutes read

Eric Charbonneau/Archewell Foundation via Getty Images

Former Kensington Palace staffer Jason Knauf has sparked controversy after his recent remarks about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, with critics suggesting he took a subtle swipe at the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

Knauf, who previously worked as a senior aide for the royal household, made headlines in 2019 when he submitted a formal complaint about Meghan’s alleged treatment of palace staff in a secret letter to Prince William. Now, years later, his latest comments about the Sussexes have reignited speculation about lingering tensions.

Speaking to Australian television, Knauf reflected on his time working for the royal family, particularly on Harry and Meghan’s 2018 wedding. “We had lots of great times, working on their wedding was an amazing magical experience and I wish them absolutely all the best with their lovely family,” Knauf said.

While his words appeared diplomatic, some royal commentators believe they carried a hidden meaning. Journalist Amanda Platell, writing in the Daily Mail, questioned whether Knauf’s comments were aimed at Prince Harry’s subsequent criticism of the royal family.

“Was this a clear dig at Harry, who went on to make millions out of his alleged grievances against the royals and the appalling way they had treated his ‘suicidal’ wife?” Platell wrote. “A wife who pleaded ‘not just to survive but thrive’?”

Harry and Meghan’s departure from royal duties in 2020 was accompanied by explosive claims about their experiences within the institution. In a bombshell interview with Oprah Winfrey, Meghan revealed she had struggled with mental health issues and felt unsupported by the royal family. Harry has since continued to speak out, publishing his memoir Spare and producing Netflix documentaries that further detailed their struggles behind palace doors.

Knauf, who later played a role in a legal battle between Meghan and The Mail on Sunday over a leaked letter to her estranged father, has remained largely silent on the Sussexes’ post-royal life—until now. While his recent comments may have been intended as neutral, they have nonetheless fueled speculation over whether he still harbors resentment toward the couple.

With ongoing divisions between the Sussexes and the royal family, even seemingly harmless remarks continue to be dissected for deeper meaning. Whether intentional or not, Knauf’s words have once again placed him at the center of royal drama.