In a surprising turn of events, Princess Anne chose to skip a significant christening event for Prince Harry, amidst what has been described as a full-scale family dispute.
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions within the royal family, particularly surrounding moments that should be filled with joy and celebration.
Christenings in the royal household are typically joyous occasions, where families come together to celebrate the arrival of a new member.
However, the christening of Prince Harry in December 1984 proved to be anything but harmonious.
According to royal analysts, the event sparked considerable discord among family members, leading to Princess Anne’s decision to abstain from the ceremony.
At just three months old, Prince Harry was christened at Windsor Castle, an event attended by notable royals, including his parents, Prince Charles and Princess Diana, as well as Prince Andrew, Prince Edward, the Queen, Prince Philip, and the Queen Mother.
Yet, amidst the celebrations, a rift was brewing that would ultimately keep Princess Anne away.
Instead of attending the christening, Anne opted to go shooting with her then-husband, Mark Phillips.
Buckingham Palace later confirmed that neither of them would make it to the ceremony, stating they were scheduled to arrive in Windsor later that same day.
The decision to skip such a momentous occasion raised eyebrows and fueled speculation about the underlying family tensions.
Royal writer Ashley Walton shed light on the situation, revealing that Anne’s absence was largely due to her feelings of being overlooked.
She had been passed over for the role of godmother not once, but twice, which escalated into a significant family dispute.
This snub reportedly left her feeling slighted and unwilling to participate in the festivities.
As the christening ceremony unfolded at 11 a.m., the cannons at Gatcombe Park—some 100 miles away—were firing in celebration, but Anne and Mark were nowhere to be seen.
Meanwhile, rumors circulated that Prince Philip was also displeased with the situation, allegedly refusing to speak to his son Charles during the christening.
In place of Princess Anne, Prince Charles and Princess Diana selected a different set of godparents for Harry, including Prince Andrew, Lady Sarah Chateau, Carolyn Bartholomew, Gerald Ward, and Celia, Lady Vestey.
These individuals were close friends of the Prince of Wales, further emphasizing the family dynamics at play.
Fast forward to today, and Prince Harry has embraced the role of godfather himself, having taken on this responsibility for several children, including Lena Tyndall, Princess Anne’s granddaughter.
His involvement in these roles showcases a different approach to family ties and relationships.
Harry has often expressed the importance of maintaining connections to childhood friendships, even as he navigates fatherhood himself.
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