The Service of Thanksgiving for the late Prince Philip took place earlier on Tuesday. Prince Harry appeared to be the only adult member of the British Royal Family who was not in attendance.
The royal-born Prince’s absence, alongside his wife, Meghan Markle, seemingly led many to wonder whether they would watch the service on a live broadcast in the United States. The International News released a report on the matter, implying it had reached out to the couple’s spokesperson.
As noted, the special memorial service would become available for the telecast from 2:30 to 4:15 in the morning, local time, in the United States. But, as to whether the former working royals took the time to watch the event on television, the matter remains unknown.
The publication said that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s spokesman has yet to respond to the request for comment.
Prince Harry confirmed earlier this month that he would not fly back to his home country for the Service of Thanksgiving. A spokesperson for the royal released the official statement, although it did not provide any reason behind the decision.
It did point out, though, that he would try to visit Queen Elizabeth II “as soon as possible.”
Prince Harry has since received criticisms from royal experts, commentators, and other members of the public. Despite this, he has maintained his silence about the issue.
On Tuesday, the late Prince Philip’s former protection officer slammed, once again, the Duke of Sussex for “not bothering” to attend the memorial service. He even described the move as “pathetic,” according to Mail Online.
Richard Griffin, who worked alongside the late royal for 14 years, stated that the former working royal’s absence “was a big disappointment for everybody.” He, also, claimed that “people were talking about it,” adding that individuals who were around where he was at the event “were saying, ‘he should have been here.’”
On Saturday, a royal expert, also, warned Prince Harry that he may regret his decision and live his “lifetime filled” with it. As pointed out, “there are no second chances for occasions such as these.”
Expert Victoria Arbiter made the assertions for 9Honey, according to Express UK. She believed, as well, that Queen Elizabeth II may not hold a grudge, but it would still be “better for [the Duke of Sussex] to make his peace now.”
The British Monarch attended the service despite the earlier concerns about her attendance due to her health. Prince Andrew was, also, present at the event, as were his siblings, Prince Charles, Princess Anne, and Prince Edward.
The Queen and the late Duke of Edinburgh’s children arrived with their respective families, as well, including even some of their great-grandchildren.