Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are set to miss the traditional royal Christmas gathering with the Queen this year, citing their busy schedules as the reason for their absence.
The royal family typically convenes at Sandringham during the festive season, a tradition that has been upheld since 1988.
This Christmas will hold a special significance as it marks the Queen’s first holiday season without her husband, Prince Philip, who passed away in April.
Speculation has been rife regarding whether Prince Harry and Meghan Markle would join the family for Christmas, especially given the recent arrival of their daughter, Lilibet, who is yet to meet her royal relatives.
Author Stuart Pearce shared insights on the Sussexes’ Christmas plans during an interview with host Christina Garibaldi on Royal E.U.S., revealing that the couple’s packed schedule would prevent them from attending the festivities.
Pearce emphasized the couple’s extensive commitments to various projects, making it challenging for them to partake in the traditional Christmas celebrations at Sandringham.
With the absence of Prince Philip, this holiday season is expected to be a poignant and different experience for the royal family.
Despite the circumstances, admiration was expressed for the Queen’s resilience and ability to persevere without succumbing to self-pity.
Reflecting on the Queen’s strength, Garibaldi lauded her as an extraordinary and resilient figure.
The Queen herself recently made a trip to Sandringham following a health scare, indicating her determination to prepare for the upcoming holiday season.
Last year, due to the pandemic, the Queen and Prince Philip spent Christmas at Windsor Castle for the first time in over three decades, deviating from their usual tradition of celebrating in Norfolk.
Windsor Castle, acquired by the British royal family in 1862 as a country residence for Edward VII and Alexandra of Denmark, holds significance as the location where the Queen records her annual televised Christmas message.
Amidst ongoing tensions within the royal family, TV presenter Lorraine Kelly expressed her belief that it would be beneficial for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to return home despite the current discord.
Kelly’s sentiments were echoed following discussions about the couple’s court appearance and the implications of their legal battles with the royal family.
The court proceedings, which involved Meghan suing Associated Newspapers Ltd over the publication of private letters to her father, revealed sensitive conversations and text messages that have caused unease within the royal household.
Despite advice against pursuing the legal action, Meghan proceeded, leading to unforeseen consequences and escalating tensions within the family.
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