Queen reportedly ‘distraught’ over husband Prince Philip’s ‘health setback’

It’s claimed it’s been a ’rough few weeks’ for the monarch

Queen Elizabeth II attends the wedding of Princess Eugenie of York and Jack Brooksbank at St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle on October 12, 2018 in Windsor, England
(Image credit: Photo by Pool/Samir Hussein/WireImage via Getty)

The Queen is thought to be ‘distraught’ over her husband Prince Philip’s ‘health setback’ as he remains in hospital.

The Queen has experienced some challenging times in recent weeks alongside the announcement of some wonderful family news. Princess Eugenie’s baby was born on 9th February. This was then shortly followed by the exciting reveal that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are expecting baby number two. While both these pieces of lovely family news have reportedly “delighted” the Queen, they come at a difficult time for the royal family.

It was confirmed by Buckingham Palace that the Queen’s husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, was taken to King Edward VII hospital in London on Tuesday 16th February. It has been stated that this is a “precautionary measure” after “feeling unwell”. It’s not thought to be Covid-related and his admission was not treated as an emergency. It has since been reported that he is “comfortable and responding to treatment”. 

Three days after Prince Philip’s hospital admission, his grandson Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan confirmed that they would not be returning as working royals. After stepping back as senior members of the Royal Family last year, it’s understood that they were given a one-year review of their decision, with the deadline reportedly in March.

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The couple’s confirmation comes ahead of this deadline and the Queen is thought to have been deciding on who will be taking over Prince Harry and Meghan’s royal patronages

According to Us Weekly, a source has exclusively said: “It’s been a rough few weeks for the queen, that’s for sure. 

“The situation with Harry and Meghan has been challenging, and on top of that, she’s distraught over her beloved husband’s health setback.”

“The queen has had some tearful moments mixed with anger and disappointment,” a second source reportedly told Us Weekly. “Emotions are definitely running high.”

It’s been suggested that the distance between the Queen and her grandson and his family has also caused heartache for the monarch. 

“The Queen has FaceTime calls with Archie, but it’s not the same,” the second source said, also noting that she is “desperate to give Archie a huge hug.”

How has the Royal Family supported the Queen?

It's understood that the Queen has been supported by her family as Prince Philip remains in hospital. Us Weekly reports that a source exclusively revealed the monarch is “leaning on her loved ones for support”. 

“It’s a lot to take on. But as usual, Elizabeth is handling the stress and sadness with great dignity,” the insider stated. And it seems that the Queen is being supported closely by many of the Royal Family members who are reportedly part of her so-called “Firm of Eight”

Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, Princess Eugenie of York, Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Beatrice of York, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Prince George of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge stand on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during the Trooping the Colour parade on June 17, 2017 in London, England

(Image credit: Photo by James Devaney/WireImage via Getty)

However, there are two royals not believed to have been included in this group who are supposedly checking in with the monarch – her granddaughters, Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice.

“Prince William, Duchess Kate, Duchess Camilla and Prince Charles and Princess Beatrice are rallying around Elizabeth,” the insider claimed, adding “even Princess Eugenie who has just given birth is checking in. Prince Charles, in particular, is making a real effort to step up. Elizabeth is the first to admit that he has been her pillar of strength.”

With the Queen facing a challenging time, it’s heartwarming to hear that her close family has been so supportive.

Emma Shacklock

Emma is a Royal Editor with eight years experience working in publishing. Her specialist areas include the British Royal Family, ranging from protocol to outfits. Alongside putting her royal knowledge to good use, Emma knows all there is to know about the latest TV shows on the BBC, ITV and more. When she’s not writing about the next unmissable show to add to your to-watch list or delving into royal protocol, Emma enjoys cooking, long walks and watching yet more crime dramas!