Title: Prince Harry's Longtime Friend Turns Back on Him: Hugh Grosvenor Breaks Ties with the Sussexes
Harry's (39) friendship with Hugh Grosvenor, the 7th Duke of Westminster, appears to be on the rocks. Grosvenor, an English billionaire with a fortune estimated at twelve billion euros, announced that he won't be inviting the Sussexes to his upcoming June 2024 wedding with girlfriend Olivia Henson[1]. This unexpected move has left many questioning the reasons behind this long-time confidant of Harry's decision.
Why the Split?
The British Sunday Times reported that Grosvenor has chosen to invite Prince William and his wife Kate over the Sussexes to his wedding ceremony[2]. This decision was allegedly made to avoid any unnecessary stress between the couples leading up to the event and to avoid creating a conflict with King Charles III (75) and his wife Camilla (76), both of whom are also on the guest list[2].
Hugh's close bond with both the Cambridge and the Sussex families has made maintaining cordial relationships with both parties a delicate balancing act since their split from the British royal family in 2020[2]. As the godfather to both Prince Harry's son, Archie (4), and Prince William's first-born, George (10), Grosvenor has had to navigate this delicate situation carefully[2].
The Grosvenor Dynasty
England derives a certain awe for Hugh Grosvenor due to his powerful family's legacy and enormous fortune[1]. The family's wealth primarily stems from real estate and land investments, with ownership of luxury properties in London's posh areas, such as Mayfair, Belgravia, and Pimlico[1].
The Grosvenor home, situated on the sprawling Eaton Hall estate in Cheshire, has been in the family's possession since the 15th century[1]. Young and privileged, Hugh attended Ellesmere College and studied landscape management in Newcastle[1]. Although he inherits part of his father Gerald Grosvenor's (64 at the time of his sudden heart attack in 2016) estimated twelve-billion-euro fortune, Hugh has managed to maintain an approachable demeanor[1].
Unassuming in his wealth, Hugh's modesty has earned him a reputation as a down-to-earth and genuine person among his circle of friends[1]. This synergy becomes even more vital considering his mix of high-profile, influential relationships within English society.
The Future of Harry's Friend Circle
Having been one of Prince Harry's closest friends, Grosvenor's decision to exclude the Sussexes is considered a significant shift in the British princes' friend circles[1]. As the wedding day approaches, speculations of rekindling the friendship among the princes seem improbable unless unforeseen circumstances arise[1].
Grosvenor's announcement follows a series of unsettling revelations from the "Endgame" tell-all book written by Omid Scobie, a confidante to the Sussexes[1]. Hopefully, the royal family and close friends can find a peaceful resolution to resolve the existing tensions.
Sources: [1] [2]
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