Prince Harry’s close friend James Haskell slams royal family with damning description in candid interview
LONDON, ENGLAND: James Haskell, a longtime friend of Prince Harry, has shared candid thoughts about the British royal family, offering an appraising mix of admiration and criticism.
In a recent interview with The Times, the former professional rugby player, 39, didn’t hold back when discussing his experiences with the monarchy, even labeling them as "dysfunctional."
James Haskell reflects on royal family’s 'dysfunctional' dynamics, acknowledges their role in society
James Haskell, who attended both Prince Harry's wedding to Meghan Markle in 2018 and Harry’s cousin Zara Tindall's wedding in 2011, spoke candidly about his time spent around royal circles.
Reflecting on the royal family’s complex dynamics, Haskell said, “Some aren’t as great as others. They do amazing work — but they’re also a modern family that’s very dysfunctional.” His words, though pointed, came with a recognition of the royal family’s important role within British society.
While Haskell was quick to point out the family’s faults, he also highlighted the positive aspects of their public work. “To those who want to get rid of the monarchy — once they’re gone, they’re gone,” he added. “There’s no way back from that, so remember that they serve an important role. I love what they do.”
Haskell’s personal connections to the royals go beyond Harry. He also enjoys a close relationship with Harry's brother, Prince William, and his wife, Kate Middleton.
Prince William avoided mentioning brother Harry on James Haskell's podcast
In September 2023, Haskell and his co-host Mike Tindall welcomed the Prince and Princess of Wales onto their podcast, 'The Good, The Bad & The Rugby', where William and Kate shared their passion for sports and their competitive spirit.
However, in a moment of notable omission, there was no mention of the rift between the two brothers. William, 42, did not touch on his strained relationship with Harry, despite the episode being filmed at Windsor Castle.
Haskell also reflected on lighter moments with the royal family, including attending Zara Tindall and Mike Tindall's 2011 wedding. He humorously recalled an “inappropriate” joke he made about Prince Andrew, who was famously stripped of his royal titles due to his connection to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.
“Prince Andrew was sweating up a storm on the dancefloor, but then he realised that everyone was over 18 so he left. It was inappropriate, but it was funny,” Haskell shared, adding to the moment’s levity.
“The wedding was full of rugby players,” Haskell continued, recalling the atmosphere at the Tindall wedding. “It was the perfect combination of ceremony and romance, coupled with the fact that both of them like to enjoy themselves. Did I wake up the next morning on my bed still in my black tie thinking, ‘Jesus, what did I do last night?’ Potentially, yes.”
James Haskell opens up about separation from wife Chloe Madeley
The conversation also touched on more personal matters in Haskell’s life. He revealed that he separated from his wife, Chloe Madeley, in October 2023, after five years of marriage.
The couple, who share a two-year-old daughter, had worked hard to avoid separation, but Haskell acknowledged their differences. “I never intended to get separated and we tried very hard to ensure that didn’t happen,” he said, adding, “Chloe is utterly brilliant — she’s intelligent and she’s a fantastic mum. Our differences have to be put to one side.”
