Disagreement over Meghan Markle's absence adds strain during family gathering
A heated disagreement unfolded between King Charles and Harry regarding Meghan Markle’s exclusion from being by Queen Elizabeth II’s side during her final moments. As the royal family rushed to Balmoral to be with the Queen, notable absences, including that of Meghan and Kate Middleton, sparked questions.
While Prince William and other senior royals, including Prince Andrew, Prince Edward, and Duchess Sophie, hurried to Scotland, Kate remained behind in Windsor. Despite initial speculation that Charles had influenced her decision, royal expert Robert Hardman confirmed that Kate chose to stay with their children as they started their new school at Lambrook.
However, it was Charles who personally barred Meghan from joining Harry at Balmoral. In his memoir Spare, Harry revealed that his father insisted Meghan should stay behind because "no other wives were coming," including Kate. This reasoning angered Harry, who called it "nonsensical" and "disrespectful," telling Charles, "Don’t ever speak about my wife that way." Charles later apologized, explaining he simply didn’t want too many people present.
The Queen passed away peacefully at 15:10 on September 8, with Charles, Camilla, and Princess Anne by her side. Harry, who was en route, learned of her passing after landing, shortly before the official announcement at 18:30.
