In a recent interview with The Times, legendary actor Sir Ian McKellen made thought-provoking remarks about the British royal family. McKellen expressed his views on Prince Philip, King Charles, and Prince Harry, painting a picture of dissatisfaction and struggle within the family. Reflecting on his personal experience receiving a Companion of Honour from Queen Elizabeth II in 2008, McKellen mentioned that the queen had been “bloody rude” by dismissively questioning whether people still attended the theater. He remarked that her comment, though blunt, may have been valid given the changing times. He also noted that, despite these moments, Prince Philip, whom he met a few times, appeared to be at ease with his royal duties.
However, McKellen turned his attention to more sensitive matters, especially the state of Prince Harry’s life. He speculated that Harry is “not bright enough to cope with royal life,” an assertion that adds to the ongoing public discourse about the prince’s decisions and actions since stepping back from royal duties. McKellen’s sharp criticism reflects the broader opinion of some who view Prince Harry’s behavior as increasingly erratic, with many questioning his purpose, particularly during what McKellen calls “pretend Royal tours” abroad.
The interview revealed McKellen’s belief that Prince Harry is struggling to find his footing outside of the royal institution. He portrayed Harry as a “little boy lost” who seems directionless, engaging in meaningless ceremonial activities abroad that, in McKellen’s opinion, serve no significant diplomatic or royal purpose. McKellen’s remarks suggest a general concern over Harry’s state of mind, describing him as “angry and frustrated all the time,” and even alluding to Harry’s attempts to return to the UK on a partial basis—an endeavor reportedly opposed by his brother, Prince William.
Lucy Beresford, a psychologist, provided additional insights into McKellen’s observations. She agreed that Harry appears troubled and emotionally driven by his role as the “spare” in the royal family—a position that seems to have deeply affected him. According to Beresford, Harry’s actions and decisions are heavily influenced by his perceived second-place status behind his brother, William. She noted that Harry’s emotional responses often manifest as anger towards the press, Britain, and the royal family itself.
While McKellen’s remarks were harsh, Beresford provided a more nuanced understanding, emphasizing that Harry’s behavior reflects long-standing feelings of inadequacy and frustration. This “second son syndrome,” as Beresford described it, has been magnified within the rigid hierarchy of the royal family. McKellen’s conclusion that Harry might simply be “too thick” to cope with royal life sparked debate, but Beresford pointed to deeper emotional complexities driving Harry’s actions.
