Prince Harry has faced criticism on social media and in royal circles after describing the emotional connection he feels with his late mother, Princess Diana, through an old photograph of her.
During a conversation with neuroscientist Mary-Frances O’Connor, Harry said that looking at a particular photograph of his mother makes him feel a deep connection with her. The photograph was taken by renowned photographer Patrick Demarchelier in 1995 for an American fashion magazine.
Harry Reflects on Diana’s Possible Views
Harry said that when he looks into his mother’s eyes in the photograph, he sees a mischievous quality in her smile.
He also said he sometimes wonders what Diana, who died in 1997, would think about his life and the decisions he is making today if she were still alive and watching him.
The comments prompted a range of reactions online, with some critics making sarcastic remarks about Harry’s description of his connection with the photograph.
Critics Question His Comments
A report citing sources close to the British royal family said some critics argued that feeling emotionally connected to a photograph of a deceased parent is natural, but questioned Harry’s suggestion that the image could help him consider what his mother might think about his current circumstances.
Some commentators also accused Harry of using memories of his mother for publicity.
However, these reactions represent the views of his critics. Harry’s comments, as described in the report, focused on his personal emotional connection with his mother and his feelings about what her opinion might have been.