A source close to the British royal family has reportedly said that Meghan Markle opted not to join Prince Harry at King Charles III’s coronation because the date coincides with her son Archie’s birthday.
“There was no way that Meghan was going to miss her son’s birthday,” the source said, according to Page Six. The Duchess of Sussex decided to remain at her Montecito, California, residence to celebrate Archie turning four years old. The source also admitted to ongoing tension between family members, and noted that things remain “awkward” between Markle, Harry and their royal relatives, according to Page Six.
JUST IN: Prince Harry will attend King Charles III’s coronation — without Meghan Markle https://t.co/ybkRuHj6ON pic.twitter.com/EABO2KUKKP
— New York Post (@nypost) April 12, 2023
Harry’s decision to attend the coronation was announced Wednesday after reports that he had spoken extensively with the royals about what his position would be in the royal affair, and what level of security would be offered to him.
This is the first time Harry will be reunited with the royals since the release of his bombshell memoir, “Spare.” In the book, Harry made a series of allegations against his father and brother, complicating their already strained relationship, according to Page Six.
His attendance at the coronation is a sign of reconciliation, and comes soon after the announcement that his son Archie and daughter Lilibet would be given official royal titles. The two are currently referred to as Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. (RELATED: REPORT: Prince Harry Decides To Attend The King’s Coronation Without Meghan Markle)
Sources close to the family said it was “a shame” that the children will not be attending “such a historic occasion,” according to Page Six.