When Prince Harry publicly declared that Meghan Markle reminded him of his late mother Princess Diana, he believed it was the highest form of praise. In interviews, speeches, and his memoir Spare, Harry has repeatedly drawn parallels between Meghan’s warmth, compassion, and media scrutiny to Diana’s own experience, framing her as a modern echo of the People’s Princess. Yet recent reports suggest that Lady Jane Fellowes — Diana’s older sister — and other members of the Spencer family reacted far more coldly than expected. Insiders claim they viewed the comparison as exaggerated, even describing Meghan’s gestures and public persona as “unconvincing” rather than authentic. The resurfacing of this tension has reignited debate about Diana’s legacy, Harry’s narrative, and whether the Spencers are quietly distancing themselves from the Sussexes.

The comparison has been a recurring theme since 2018. Harry first hinted at it during the couple’s engagement interview, saying Meghan brought “the same compassion and empathy” as his mother. In Spare (2023), he went further, describing Meghan as “so similar to my mum” in her ability to connect with people and her struggles with royal life. For Harry, the parallel is deeply personal — a way to honour Diana while defending Meghan against criticism. But sources close to the Spencer family say the comparison has never landed well with Diana’s siblings.

Lady Jane Fellowes, 68, who delivered a poignant reading at Diana’s 1997 funeral, is said to have found the remarks “overreaching.” A family friend told The Mail on Sunday: “Jane and the Spencers have always been protective of Diana’s memory. They feel the constant invocation of her name by Harry and Meghan dilutes what she stood for. They see Meghan’s public style — the emotional interviews, the polished vulnerability — as performative rather than genuine.” Another source close to Charles Spencer, Diana’s brother, added: “The family has never endorsed the comparison. They believe it’s used more for narrative than truth.”

The tension is reportedly resurfacing now due to renewed media focus on the Sussexes. With Harry’s security case ongoing and Meghan’s commercial projects under scrutiny, the Spencers are said to be “quietly distancing” themselves. Lady Jane has not commented publicly, but her continued silence on the couple — in contrast to her occasional statements about Diana’s legacy — is interpreted by some as deliberate. Charles Spencer, who has been more vocal in the past, has also avoided any mention of Harry or Meghan in recent interviews.

Royal watchers see this as part of a broader strategy. “The Spencers have always been protective of Diana’s image,” said historian Robert Lacey. “They don’t want her memory co-opted for modern PR battles.” Some speculate that William, who shares a close bond with his mother’s family, has quietly encouraged the Spencers to maintain distance.

Harry and Meghan have not responded to the latest reports. A spokesperson said only: “The Duke and Duchess remain focused on their family and charitable work.” But the narrative surrounding Diana’s legacy is taking a dramatic new turn. For Harry, the comparison has always been heartfelt. For the Spencers, it appears increasingly unwelcome.

As the royal rift deepens, one question lingers: can Harry ever fully reclaim his mother’s memory without alienating the family that shares it? The answer may lie in the silence — and the space — between Kensington and Montecito.