Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have strongly rejected claims made in a new royal biography, describing the allegations as a “deranged conspiracy” and “melodrama.” The criticism comes after excerpts from an upcoming book about the British royal family sparked widespread controversy.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex say the author’s claims are based on speculation rather than facts and accuse him of spreading conspiratorial narratives about their lives.
Explosive Claims in New Royal Biography
The controversy centers on a new book titled Betrayal: Power, Deceit and the Fight for the Future of the Royal Family by author Tom Bower, scheduled for publication in March 2026. Betrayal: Power, Deceit and the Fight for the Future of the Royal Family.
Early extracts published in The Times include controversial allegations about Harry and Meghan’s relationship, their role within the royal family, and tensions with senior royals.
Among the most debated claims is that Queen Camilla allegedly told a friend Meghan had “brainwashed” Prince Harry, contributing to a growing rift within the royal household.
The book also suggests that some senior royals, including Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, viewed Meghan as a potential “threat” to the monarchy’s stability.
Sussexes Fire Back at Author
A spokesperson for the couple dismissed the allegations outright, accusing the author of building his reputation on speculation about people he has never met.
The spokesperson said Bower’s commentary “crossed the line from criticism into fixation,” and accused him of promoting conspiracy theories rather than factual reporting.
In the statement, the couple argued that those looking for accurate information should look elsewhere, suggesting the book appeals mainly to readers interested in sensationalism.
Invictus Games Claims Also Rejected
The biography also makes controversial claims about the 2025 Invictus Games, implying that media attention surrounding Meghan overshadowed the sporting event.
However, the Invictus Games Foundation rejected that suggestion and defended the event’s mission, which supports wounded, injured, and sick military personnel — including those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The foundation criticized suggestions that participants’ injuries were not legitimate, emphasizing that both physical and invisible injuries are recognized.
Ongoing Royal Family Tensions
The dispute highlights the continuing tension between the Sussexes and the rest of the British royal family following their decision to step back from royal duties in 2020 — a move widely referred to as “Megxit.”
Since relocating to California, Harry and Meghan have frequently been the subject of biographies, documentaries, and media investigations examining their relationship with the monarchy.
Buckingham Palace has declined to comment on the latest book or the claims surrounding it.
Debate Over Royal Biographies
Royal biographies often generate intense public interest but also frequent controversy. Critics say such books rely heavily on anonymous sources and speculation, while supporters argue they provide insight into the inner workings of the monarchy.
With the release of Bower’s latest book approaching, the debate surrounding Harry, Meghan, and the future of the royal family appears far from over.