Once part of the "Fab Four" with William and Meghan, Prince Harry and Kate Middleton look to be estranged. Declaring they are "separated" with "no bridge to mend" their relationship, royal biographer Emily Andrews presents a bleak picture. Given Kate's illness battle, when family support is absolutely vital, this distance is especially heartbreaking.

Previously quite close, Harry and Kate would often be seen with William and the children at events and trips. But after Harry wed Meghan Markle and thereafter left royal responsibilities, sometimes referred to as "Megxit," their relationship sourmed.

Andrews adds in the Mirror, "What has kept her going are her family and friends rallying round." Once a close friend, Harry is sadly absent from that support network. Harry and Meghan left royal life and relocated to California, USA, where they produced a Netflix documentary titled "Harry and Meghan," which includes complaints of royal family members including Kate. Harry called Kate "formal" and suited for the royal family's "mold".

"With his new life in the US, high-profile TV appearances, and a scathing book, it is unlikely that Harry's shoulder is one Kate has sought to cry on," Andrews says. She says that disease should be a strong motivator for healing previous divisions. Rather, the gulf separating Harry from Kate has simply widened.

Last seen openly at the Trooping the Colour, Kate depends on a limited, trustworthy circle comprising William and the King. Reports suggest she is also becoming close to Queen Camilla. The Sussexes do not, however, belong inside this inner circle. The manner Kate's cancer news got to Harry and Meghan via public channels emphasizes the family's tense connections.