Introduction: In recent developments surrounding Omid Scobie’s British royals biography, “Endgame: Inside the Royal Family and the Monarchy’s Fight for Survival,” a storm has erupted with the temporary withdrawal of its Dutch Bookshelves translation. The controversy centers on the revelation of concerns expressed by two unnamed members of the royal family about the potential skin color of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s son during her pregnancy.
The Initial Revelation
Meghan Markle, in a 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, disclosed concerns and conversations within the royal family regarding how dark her son’s skin might be at birth. Despite stepping back from royal duties, the couple refrained from disclosing the identities of the family members involved in the conversation.
Unmasking the Royals: English vs. Dutch Edition
Scobie’s English version of “Endgame” tactfully avoids naming the royals, citing concerns about libel laws. However, the Dutch translation reportedly disclosed the identities, prompting a temporary halt in sales. The discrepancy has stirred a debate around the editorial process and legal ramifications.
Publisher’s Response and Translator’s Clarification
The Dutch publisher, in a statement, attributed the book’s withdrawal to an error in the Dutch edition, promising a re-release on December 8. The translator, Saskia Peeters, maintains her stance, stating that she faithfully translated the content presented to her and did not introduce the names.
Scobie’s Defense
Omid Scobie, appearing on UK television programs, defended the English version, emphasizing that he did not name the royals and did not review translated versions before release. He vehemently denied any publicity stunt allegations, affirming a thorough investigation into the unfolding events.
Broader Context: Race, Ethics, and Values
Beyond the controversy, Scobie asserts that the conversation about race within the royal family is one that warrants more attention. He explains that the book aims to scrutinize whether working family members adhere to the late Queen Elizabeth II’s ethics, values, and principles, raising questions about necessary changes.
Public Figures Weigh In
Piers Morgan, a prominent British TV personality, risked legal action by naming two royals on his program, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing saga. Meanwhile, Prince William, responding to questions about racism within the royal family, emphasized that they are “very much not a racist family.”
Harry and Meghan’s Perspective
In a post-interview response, Prince Harry clarified that the incident was not explicitly racist and drew a distinction between racism and unconscious bias. The couple’s decision to step back from royal duties in 2020 was influenced, in part, by what they deemed as biased treatment by the British tabloid media.
Conclusion
As the controversy unfolds, the withdrawal of the Dutch Bookshelves version of “Endgame” adds a new dimension to the already intricate narrative surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. The nuanced discussion about race, ethics, and values within the royal family raises important societal questions that extend beyond the confines of this particular biography.