In a twist that seems to echo the past few years, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have once again found themselves sidelined during the King’s official birthday festivities.
Since their unexpected exit from royal duties four years ago, this marks yet another occasion where they have been absent from the balcony of Buckingham Palace during the Trooping the Colour ceremony.
With the exception of 2019, when they were seen alongside the late Queen, the couple has not participated in this royal tradition since relocating to California.
Despite being invited to the Trooping the Colour in previous years, this time around, Harry and Meghan were noticeably absent from the guest list, remaining in their lavish £12 million home in California.
The event, which is a highlight of the royal calendar, will see many familiar faces, but the Sussexes won’t be among them.
It raises questions about the ongoing rift within the royal family and how it continues to affect their public appearances.
On a brighter note, Princess Catherine is set to make her much-anticipated return to the public eye after a challenging battle with cancer.
She expressed her gratitude to supporters through a touching personal letter, showcasing her resilience and strength.
Her presence at the Trooping the Colour will undoubtedly draw attention and support from the public.
Richard Fitzwilliams, a royal commentator, weighed in on the situation, noting that Harry’s absence from such an important event is likely to weigh heavily on him.
As a former soldier who served in Afghanistan, the significance of military traditions is not lost on him.
Fitzwilliams suggests that Harry’s past comments, which have painted his stepmother, Queen Camilla, in a negative light, may haunt him with regret if he chooses not to attend.
Interestingly, Fitzwilliams believes that while Harry may feel remorse for missing out on the Trooping the Colour, the Duchess might not share the same sentiment.
He posits that Meghan may view such royal rituals as less significant, indicating a potential difference in how they perceive their roles and responsibilities within the royal family.
During his last visit to the UK in May, which coincided with the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games, Harry did not meet with King Charles or any other family members.
