Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, is set to attend the coronation of his older brother, King Charles, on 6 May at Westminster Abbey.
It will be a momentous occasion that marks the beginning of a new era for the British monarchy and is expected to draw more than 2,000 guests. Prince Harry will be there but his wife, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, will not.
This momentous occasion has been long-awaited by many but there had been speculation as to whether Prince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex would attend or not.
Buckingham Palace confirmed that the Duke will indeed be present at the coronation but he will be attending alone.
Prince Harry’s attendance is particularly noteworthy given that his book Spare was published earlier this year which vividly revealed the depth of his disagreements with other members of the Royal Family.
It was seen as a bombshell revelation as it exposed some of the family’s biggest secrets. This significant event for Prince Harry marks his first appearance with other royals since then and it will be an important step forward in mending any broken ties.
The coronation will also be a significant moment for the public as it marks the official crowning of King Charles, who has been acting as monarch since Queen Elizabeth II’s abdication last year.
This was done in order to pass on the legacy and responsibilities of the monarchy to Prince Charles and it is sure to be an emotional event.
The Duke of Sussex will undoubtedly make a grand entrance at his brother’s coronation but his wife’s absence is likely to garner just as much attention from onlookers.
It remains unclear why Meghan won’t be attending but some have speculated that she may feel uncomfortable or out of place after her recent revelations about royal life in her book Spare.
Others feel that she may be intentionally avoiding the coronation in an effort to avoid any more controversy or awkwardness.
No matter what the reason for her absence may be, it is clear that Prince Harry’s attendance alone will make a significant statement about his relationship with the Royal Family.
It will be interesting to see how the Duke handles himself during this momentous event and if he is able to put aside any past resentments in order to show familial unity.
The coronation of King Charles promises to be an exciting event filled with pomp and ceremony that will no doubt be remembered for years to come.
Prince Harry’s appearance without his wife offers a unique twist on this traditional occasion and is sure to leave many wondering what could have been if they had attended together.
Despite their absence, it will still be a day to remember for the Royal Family and citizens of Britain alike as King Charles ascends to the throne.
Only time will tell what kind of monarch he will be but there is no doubt that this coronation signals the start of an exciting new era for the monarchy.