ORIGINALLY planned to be released in November, Prince Harry’s potentially explosive memoir will not be published until next year, according to sources close to the Sussexes (Harry and Meghan).
Harry signed the blockbuster deal with Penguin Random House last year – the publisher paid Barack and Michelle Obama US$65 million for their book deal.
"I'm writing this not as the prince I was born but as the man I have become," the 37-year-old said at the time.
The book has been long expected to be released towards the end of this year, to take advantage of the holiday shopping season.
However, the recent death of Queen Elizabeth II has thrown plans up in the air, as publishing the memoir this year would be considered disrespectful to the late monarch. Though the official mourning period for her death is 10 days, unofficially it would last much longer. She did rule for 70 years after all.
It is expected that the delay will allow Harry to add additional chapters on his grandmother’s death and any reflections he may have on his father’s ascension to the throne.
Tom Bower, who wrote a recent biography of Markle, said in an interview that he heard Harry was ‘insisting’ on keeping the original release date.
He added that the memoir will be printed in Suffolk, with great secrecy, to the point that staff will be searched to make sure they don’t sneak out copies.
He described the book as a "timebomb".
Meanwhile, royal experts believe Harry publishing anything at any point will be controversial. Despite being seen together during the Queen’s funeral, it is believed tensions still remain in the House of Windsor.
They believe any explosive allegations from Harry could destroy his reputation and ruin any opportunities for reconciliation.
Other sources say neither King Charles nor Prince William have been given a chance to read through a preview manuscript.
According to Penguin Random House, the book is "a heartfelt memoir from one of the most fascinating and influential global figures of our time".
"Prince Harry will share, for the very first time, the definitive account of the experiences, adventures, losses, and life lessons that have helped shape him.
“Covering his lifetime in the public eye from childhood to the present day, including his dedication to service, the military duty that twice took him to the frontlines of Afghanistan, and the joy he has found in being a husband and father, Prince Harry will offer an honest and captivating personal portrait, one that shows readers that behind everything they think they know lies an inspiring, courageous, and uplifting human story.”
Harry will reportedly give all the proceeds from the book to charity.
Penguin Random House has yet to release a statement on an updated release for the memoir. – The Vibes, September 15, 2022
