After months of anticipation, Buckingham Palace has confirmed that Prince Harry will attend his father’s coronation on May 6th. However, his wife, Meghan Markle, will not be joining him. The Duchess of Sussex will remain in California with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, attends the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II held at Westminster Abbey on September 19, 2022 in London, England. The Queen, who died peacefully on September 8 at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, aged 96, reigned for 70 years – the longest reigning monarch in British history
The announcement has ended widespread speculation about the Sussexes’ attendance. When asked about the coronation in January, Prince Harry had said, “There’s a lot that can happen between now and then.”
The confirmation comes after the RSVP deadline of April 3rd, raising questions about logistical and security arrangements. While Frogmore Cottage is no longer the Sussexes’ UK residence, other royal households could accommodate Prince Harry during his stay.
Royal commentator Robert Jobson, in his new biography of King Charles, sheds light on the financial considerations within the royal family. Citing palace insiders, Jobson claims that King Charles expressed his inability to financially support Prince Harry, Meghan, and their children, along with the Prince and Princess of Wales and their family. This revelation reportedly angered Prince Harry.
Despite the ongoing tensions, Prince Harry, in recent interviews surrounding his memoir “Spare,” hinted at the possibility of reconciliation. He expressed his desire to mend his relationship with his father and brother, admitting, “At the moment, I don’t recognize them as much as they probably don’t recognize me.”
Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex during the National Service of Thanksgiving for the life of Queen Elizabeth II held at St Paul's Cathedral on June 03, 2022 in London, England.
His attendance at the coronation, a momentous occasion for the King and Queen Consort, offers a glimmer of hope for a potential thaw in relations. The public, particularly in Britain, where the brothers are still held in high regard, eagerly anticipate seeing them together.
While Prince Harry’s presence at the coronation is confirmed, his role in the day’s events remains unclear. It is unlikely he will appear on the Buckingham Palace balcony, a tradition reserved for working royals.
Speculation suggests his visit will be brief, potentially just for the coronation ceremony. He might forgo other events like the concert and the Big Lunch, citing his son’s birthday as the reason for his swift return to Montecito.
NBC Royal commentator Daisy McAndrew believes the Palace considers this the most diplomatic solution, acknowledging that the couple faced a no-win situation.
While Meghan’s absence might have spared her potential negative publicity, McAndrew expresses sadness over her decision, emphasizing the public’s delight at Prince Harry’s confirmation.
Whether this occasion will pave the way for reconciliation remains to be seen. There haven’t been any reports of conversations between Prince Harry and his father or brother. It’s also unclear whether Prince Harry’s demand for an apology, a condition he previously set for attending the coronation, has been met.
