Despite recent reports, the apparent lack of an invitation to the Trooping the Colour for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle does not signify a snub from the British royal family, says a renowned royal historian. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are unlikely to partake in this grand tradition, which is slated to celebrate King Charles' birthday this coming Saturday.
Prince Harry, who recently journeyed to London from California for his court case against Mirror Group Newspapers, is not expected to return to the UK for the ceremonial event. An anonymous source cited by Entertainment Tonight indicated that Harry and Meghan had not received an invitation, further noting that Harry had not met with his brother, Prince William, or his father, King Charles, during his recent London visit. However, this information could not be independently confirmed by the International Business Times.
Royal historian Gareth Russell, author of "Do Let's Have Another Drink!", doesn't anticipate the Sussexes' presence at the ceremony. According to him, the royal family lacks a compelling reason to extend an invitation to the couple.
Russell told Us Weekly on Tuesday, "I don't think they need to be invited. It's not a slight, but it's a substantial trip from California just for the Trooping the Colour. ... This is one of those occasions where an invitation to the Sussexes wouldn't naturally be extended."
Russell highlighted the fact that the 38-year-old Prince and 41-year-old Meghan are "no longer working royals." He underscored their lack of obligation to be present at traditional royal gatherings, though he acknowledged that King Charles' coronation would carry different expectations.
"Obviously, the coronation is a far larger event—a milestone in the royal family's history," he noted. He further clarified that the Sussexes' potential absence from the Trooping the Colour should not be misconstrued as a gauge of familial sentiments.
Despite not appearing on the Buckingham Palace balcony with senior working royals last year, the Duke and Duchess did attend the previous Trooping the Colour, a part of Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee festivities.
Royal author and commentator Kinsey Schofield suggested on GB News that King Charles might not have invited his estranged son and daughter-in-law due to the potential embarrassment caused by Harry's recent legal battles.
"This is the King's grand celebration," Schofield explained. "Harry's recent actions have likely caused some familial discomfort. His decision to revisit past grievances hasn't helped in mending ties."
Echoing Schofield's thoughts, writer and broadcaster Esther Krakue stated, "The Sussexes' actions have repeatedly caused embarrassment to the royal family over the years, so their non-invitation to King Charles' birthday parade seems appropriate."
This Saturday will witness the return of a cherished royal tradition after over 30 years, as King Charles will join the Trooping the Colour parade on horseback, an event marking the official birthday of the UK's sovereign.