Diana, Camilla, Catherine and Meghan each made the life-changing choice to marry into the House of Windsor. On the surface, it looks like a fairy tale. But what is the true cost of becoming a royal wife? And why have some adapted to life behind palace walls more easily than others?

Kate Mansey and Roya Nikkhah are joined by Simon Vigar, royal correspondent for 5 News and author of the new book, The Four Wives of Windsor, to examine the sacrifices, scrutiny and rivalries that come with marrying a prince.

Why did Diana’s star power become a threat? How did Camilla transform her public image? And why did Meghan’s time in the institution unravel so quickly? They also discuss the importance of love, laughter, and why playing the long game in the royal family matters most.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to press follow at the top of your podcast app.

What do you think: which royal wife adapted best to life inside the House of Windsor? Get in touch: theroyals@thetimes.co.uk

Simon’s book, The Four Wives of Windsor: Rivalries, Influence and the True Power Behind the Crown, is available now. You can buy a copy from The Times Bookshop, with a special discount for Times+ members.

Image: Getty

Producer: Robert Wallace, Shabnam Grewal

Video Producer: Eve Chadbourn

Executive Producer: Priyanka Deladia

Read more: How Queen Camilla became the boldest royal of the bunch

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Harry and Meghan are reportedly moving back to Britain with Archie and Lilibet, more than six years after leaving royal life for California. But why now — and how will their return work in practice?

Roya Nikkhah is joined by Rosamund Urwin, chief news correspondent of The Sunday Times, to discuss the Sussexes’ shock decision, the King’s reaction and what it could mean for Prince William.

They also examine Harry’s security concerns, the couple’s life in America and whether their return risks creating an alternative royal court — blurring the “half-in, half-out” boundaries established at Sandringham six years ago .

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to press follow at the top of your podcast app.

What do you want to know about Harry and Meghan’s return to the UK? Get in touch: theroyals@thetimes.co.uk

Image: Getty

Producer: Robert Wallace

Video Producer: Eve Chadbourn

Executive Producer: Priyanka Deladia

Watch us on YouTube.

Read more: How Prince Harry's return complicates the royal balance of power

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Prince Harry is expected to return to Britain in September, amid signs of a thaw in his relationship with King Charles. But where does that leave Prince William? And can the King rebuild ties with his younger son while keeping his heir on side?

Roya Nikkhah is joined by journalist Catherine Mayer, author of Divide and Rule: Royal Women and Their Battles, and The Times columnist Hilary Rose to ask whether the Highgrove reunion marked a genuine turning point. Why does William remain unable to forgive Harry? Has his silence protected his dignity, or allowed his brother’s account to dominate? And could Harry’s growing presence in Britain force the royal family to confront their estrangement?

They also discuss the role of Camilla and Catherine in managing the family conflict, the significance of Harry potentially staying at Buckingham Palace, and why next year’s Invictus Games could present Charles and William with a difficult choice.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to press follow at the top of your podcast app.

What do you think: can Charles rebuild his relationship with Harry while keeping William on side? Get in touch: theroyals@thetimes.co.uk

Catherine’s book, Divide and Rule: Royal Women and Their Battles is available now. You can buy a copy from The Times Bookshop, with a special discount for Times+ members.

Image: Getty

Producer: Robert Wallace

Video Producer: Eve Chadbourn

Executive Producer: Priyanka Deladia

Watch us on YouTube.

Read more: Harry and Meghan’s photos show a perfect summer. Why aren’t they happy?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.