Royal wedding protocol has come under scrutiny following the marriage of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, with reports that Meghan must curtsy to her new sister-in-law, Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge. The rule, which applies to all non-blood royals, has surprised many fans who note that both women were commoners before marriage.
According to The Daily Express, the protocol stems from rules updated in 2012 after Kate married Prince William. Meghan is required to curtsy to the Queen, Prince Charles and Camilla, and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. However, the presence of Prince Harry alters the hierarchy: if Harry is absent, Meghan must also curtsy to other blood royals such as Princess Anne, Princess Eugenie, and Princess Beatrice.
If Prince Harry is present, Meghan assumes his rank, meaning those blood princesses must curtsy to her instead. The complex system has left many confused, with hopes that Meghan has advisors to guide her through the intricacies of royal etiquette.
