Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will not join the royal family at Sandringham for Christmas this year, according to an insider. The claim comes as tensions between the Sussexes and Harry's relatives continue following the couple's return to the UK earlier this year.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have no plans to join King Charles, Prince William and the rest of the royal family for their traditional Christmas celebrations, a source told Page Six.
Palace insider cites hierarchy
“There is a hierarchy,” a palace insider said. “And the King is the CEO, he’s the boss — what he says go, so it’s better not to put themselves in any difficult position.”
The insider claims that the couple is instead considering spending the holidays at the cottage where they are currently staying in Northamptonshire — or returning to California. Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland, is expected to join them wherever they celebrate the holiday with Archie and Lilibet.
Recent public appearances
It comes after Prince Harry was booed during an appearance at a rugby union match in Leicester. The Duke of Sussex made a low-key appearance at Welford Road to watch Leicester Tigers clash with Gloucester, being a big rugby fan. He was greeted with boos by some fans after he was shown on the big screen — enjoying a beer.
The pair have not been seen frequently since their return to the UK, although they were spotted heading together to a pub in a low-key outing. Meghan has also been spotted at a pub with fellow US celebrity Ellen DeGeneres and her partner Portia de Rossi.
Return to the UK
They moved back to the UK in August, with their two children — Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Following their return, a letter was issued on behalf of the monarch reminding officials that the couple cannot use their HRH titles and that they do not represent the Royal Family.
Harry and Meghan said that the statement caught them by “surprise” and in response said that they would prefer to be recognised as “public figures” rather than “private citizens” as the King classified them.
