Prince William’s recent trip to Paris to watch Aston Villa in the Champions League quarter-finals was a moment of joy for royal fans.
Cheering enthusiastically and celebrating with his son, Prince George, William’s “boys’ night out” at the Parc des Princes delighted many.
However, for one person, the evening might have been a bit uncomfortable, given the ongoing family dynamics.
A Royal Night with Old Friends
At the match, William, 42, was surrounded by some of his closest childhood friends, including Thomas von Straubenzee, 42, and William van Cutsem, 45, known as “VC.”
These men, who have been part of William’s life since his early years, share a bond that dates back to their school days.
Their connection is evident, as they’ve supported each other through many significant events, from family celebrations to charity endeavors.
They even served as ushers at each other’s weddings.
Strained Relationships in the Royal Circle
While the atmosphere was celebratory for William, the situation likely felt different for his brother Harry.
Since Harry’s dramatic move to Montecito in 2020 and the release of his memoir, Spare, his relationships with old friends have been affected, particularly in light of his public grievances with the royal family.
Harry’s rift with the family, especially with William, has been well documented, and it’s likely that seeing his brother enjoying a night out with their childhood friends would have stung.
Just days prior, Harry had skipped the wedding of his close friend, Lord Vivian, despite being in London for a Court of Appeal hearing regarding his security arrangements.
This absence further highlighted the growing divide between Harry and his old circle, including Thomas and VC.
The Van Straubenzee and Van Cutsem Families: A Royal Bond
The van Straubenzee family, in particular, has been described as a second family to William and Harry.
Thomas, who is considered William’s best friend, was a key support figure for William following Megxit, while Harry leaned on another van Straubenzee brother, Charlie.
Harry has been particularly close to Thomas’s late brother, Henry, who tragically died in a car crash at the age of 18.
In Spare, Harry fondly recalls Henry as the only person to ask him about his late mother, Princess Diana, after her death.
The two boys shared many happy memories, and Harry’s bond with Henry was deep.
Following Henry’s death, both William and Harry actively supported The Henry van Straubenzee Memorial Fund, and in 2014, they gave a joint tribute to Henry.
Despite the current tensions, both princes have continued to support the charity, marking significant anniversaries together, such as the 20th anniversary of Henry’s passing in 2022.
Shifting Loyalties and Public Appearances
As the relationship between Harry and his old friends has shifted, the same can be said for his connection with the van Cutsem family.
Although VC remains close to William, their ties to Harry have become more strained.
In his memoir, Harry reveals that he had a falling out with some members of the van Cutsem family, particularly after his tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey.
It’s clear that some of these old friendships have been affected by Harry’s public revelations.
Interestingly, despite the tensions, Thomas and VC continue to play important roles in William’s life.
Thomas, often referred to as William’s best friend, even stepped in as William’s best man at his 2011 wedding to Kate Middleton.
Both Thomas and VC have been significant figures in the royal family’s social circle for years, and their continued support of William is evident in various public appearances.
The Van Cutsems: Closer Ties to William
The van Cutsem family, too, has a longstanding connection with the royal family.
VC, in particular, is the godfather to Prince George, and William is godfather to VC’s daughter, Mary.
Their families have shared many milestones together, with VC and his wife, Rosie, being key figures in royal gatherings, including William and Kate’s wedding in 2011.
However, rumors of a falling out have surfaced in recent years, particularly after an incident involving VC’s sister-in-law, Rosie Astor.
Her public comments mocking Harry and Meghan’s decision to step back from royal duties reportedly caused a rift between them.
In his memoir, Harry acknowledges that his relationship with some members of the van Cutsem family soured, particularly after his Oprah interview.
The Future of These Royal Friendships
Despite the ongoing tensions within the royal family, it’s clear that some relationships have stood the test of time.
William’s friendship with Thomas and VC remains strong, even as Harry’s connection with these individuals has become more distant.
As royal life continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how these friendships will develop, especially in the context of the brothers’ increasingly separate lives.
The future of these royal bonds will likely be shaped by both personal decisions and public events, and only time will tell how they will ultimately unfold.