Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s return to the U.K. has not been without its challenges. Their move back to Britain in August, after living in California for six years, was marked by a disagreement with Buckingham Palace over their status as ‘private citizens’ versus ‘public figures.’ A letter sent on King Charles III’s behalf to government and military officials stirred tensions with the couple’s team pushing back on their classification as ‘private citizens.’
As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex settle in, several potential points of conflict loom within the royal calendar. These events may invite scrutiny and raise questions of whether or not Harry and Meghan will expect or receive invitations, and how they might react to invitations—or the absence of them.
Decisions for King Charles III
King Charles III faces a dilemma: how much should Harry and Meghan be reintegrated into the royal fold? This comes after deeply personal criticisms from Harry’s memoir ‘Spare’ and his interviews, alongside an ongoing rift with Prince William, the heir. Harry previously stated he is not on speaking terms with his brother. Their last joint appearance was at Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in September 2022. This relationship dynamic could potentially influence Charles’s choices.
Remembrance Events
The first potentially sensitive occasion is remembrance events in November, attended by royals to honor those who died in the line of duty. Events at Westminster Abbey and the Royal Albert Hall, leading up to Remembrance Sunday at The Cenotaph, are usually reserved for working royals. Harry, as a veteran who served in Afghanistan, holds a unique place in these commemorations.
Harry paid tribute to British troops earlier this year, highlighting past friends and losses. In 2020, while overseas due to COVID-19, he had a wreath arranged in his honor at The Cenotaph—a move that was blocked, reportedly leaving him saddened and disappointed.
Princess Kate’s Carol Service
The annual carol service held by Princess Kate in December could pose another question of attendance for the Sussexes. Though it has welcomed family members in the past, Harry might not be extended an invitation. Conflicting announcements, such as the release of Harry and Meghan’s Netflix documentary on the morning before the carols, have historically coincided with the event.
The Pre-Christmas Lunch
Mid-December sees a royal lunch at Buckingham Palace. Attendance extends beyond working royals, though the Sussexes may opt for returning to California for Christmas—a possibility that could pre-empt any invitation. Previous incidents, such as Princess Michael of Kent’s “racist brooch” apology at the lunch, underscore the unpredictable nature of royal gatherings.
Christmas Day at Sandringham
The royal Christmas celebration at Sandringham welcomes both family members and those connected by marriage. Past attendees have included Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson. The potential to invite Harry and Meghan, amid past complexities, could prove delicate for the palace.
The Invictus Games in Birmingham
Scheduled for July, the Invictus Games will unfold in Birmingham. It presents a royal dilemma; King Charles’s presence would signal support for Harry’s initiative. In contrast, William, unlikely to endorse the event, attended previously in 2014 when relations were amicable.
Uganda’s withdrawal from Invictus due to Harry’s ‘private citizen’ status, followed by reinstatement upon Charles’s support, underscores the stakes involved.
Princess Diana’s 30th Anniversary
August 2027 marks the 30th anniversary of Princess Diana’s death, prompting discussions around potential projects from Harry. A Netflix deal compels first refusal for any content created, possibly causing controversies. Past promises from William to avoid reopening discussions about Diana’s death could challenge Harry’s intended projects.
Potential films could open Harry and Meghan to criticisms of profiteering off Diana’s memory, escalating tensions among the family. Charles’s meeting with Harry could become contentious if it seems to endorse a project William opposes. Various paths exist to circumvent conflict, yet numerous pitfalls await along this journey.
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