Prince Philip's final heart-to-heart with Charles: Duke advised son how to lead royal family, take care of Queen
Prince Charles paid tribute to his late father Prince Philip, who died on Friday, April 9, at the age of 99, referring to him as “My dear Papa”, and calling him “a very special person who I think above all else”. Now, reports have revealed that the father-son shared words before the Duke of Edinburgh’s passing.
As per reports, Prince Philip had just three important things to say when he asked to see his eldest son in hospital a few weeks ago. In an emotional bedside conversation, the duke reportedly advised Prince Charles to care for Queen Elizabeth II when he was gone, and on how Charles should lead the royal family through the years ahead.
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Prince Philip also expressed his wish to go home after being hospitalized for a while, a Palace source revealed. He wanted to die in his own bed, behind the walls of Windsor Castle, as per the source.
The father and son’s relationship while Charles was growing up was allegedly contentious with reports of jealousy and bullying between the two. Prince Philip's reported neglect of his son began as early as Prince Charles' birth. Philip was reportedly not in attendance when Charles was born and was out playing squash instead.
Charles was an introvert when he was growing up and gravitated towards the arts rather than sports. This reportedly disappointed Philip, who pushed Charles to be less sensitive about things and tried to toughen him up. As a result, Prince Charles developed a closer bond with his grandmother, Elizabeth, who was also known as Queen Mother.
In the 2001 book, 'Diana: Story of a Princess', royal expert Penny Junor told author Tim Clayton that Philip was sometimes too tough on Charles and came across as a bully. As a result, Prince Charles suffered from self-esteem issues and always felt like he was disappointing his father.
But their relationship changed. “They've both mellowed,” said a royal source. “In recent years they were much more accepting of the other's point of view. They have always loved one another – that was never in question. But there was a deeper respect and it was growing.”
“They shared common ground on the future direction of the monarchy, on religious issues -- even on the environment. They both believed in inter-faith dialogue and that talking openly and honestly, can only help strengthen communities and understanding,” the source added.
A close friend of the Philip said: “The idea that these are two men who spent a lifetime at loggerheads, and that Princess Anne was the son he wished he'd had, is out of date and wrong. A much more accurate picture over the last ten years is of two very strong-willed people who came to understand each other's point of view. A father and son who loved each other and enjoyed a relationship of mutual respect and affection.”