London: Prince Harry is facing criticism on social media after describing the emotional bond he feels with a photograph of his late mother, Princess Diana. Some critics have mocked his attachment to the image, and some have accused him of seeking attention by discussing his grief publicly.
What Harry said
Harry spoke about grief, panic attacks and depression in a MasterClass titled Redefining Grief: Building Resilience Through Loss, released on October 8 with grief researcher Dr. Mary-Frances O’Connor. He talked about a portrait of Diana by French photographer Patrick Demarchelier, published in Harper’s Bazaar in December 1995.
Harry said he can get eye contact from the portrait, and that there is a cheekiness in Diana’s smile. He said he finds himself looking at the picture and wondering what his mother would think of what he is doing now. He added that he sometimes checks whether her expression has changed, “but it never does.” He said he talks to her most mornings and nights, asking for guidance.
Asked how often he thinks of Diana, he said pretty much every night and most mornings. He also explained that losing his mother at 12 affected his ability to remember simple things about her, including her voice, laughter and appearance.
The criticism
According to Radar Online, one source said Harry had opened himself up to ridicule by speaking about the photograph as though it were a living presence. The source added that it sounded as though he were talking to Diana’s ghost.
A second source said there was an uncomfortable irony in Harry repeatedly wondering what Diana would make of his life today, and that people would naturally speculate about whether she would have approved of everything that has happened. Others have questioned whether Diana would have approved of his choices since he left royal duties.
Defenders push back
Not everyone agrees with the criticism. One outlet argued that a man openly discussing grief and mental health is still mocked by some as weak, a stigma that keeps many men from seeking help.
Background
Harry has said he went nearly two decades without crying after Diana died in 1997, mistaking emotional numbness for strength. He has also said he came to believe Diana would have wanted him to enjoy his life rather than remain consumed by grief.