Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will not join the royal family at Sandringham for Christmas this year, according to an insider. The decision comes amid ongoing tensions between the Sussexes and Harry's relatives 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 the traditional Christmas festivities, a source told Page Six.
Palace Insider Cites 'Hierarchy' Within the Firm
"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 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 with Archie and Lilibet.
Recent Public Appearances in the UK
The news follows Prince Harry being booed during an appearance at a rugby union match in Leicester. The Duke of Sussex made a discreet appearance at Welford Road to watch Leicester Tigers take on Gloucester, being a massive rugby enthusiast. He was met with jeers by some supporters after being displayed on the big screen while enjoying a pint.
The couple has rarely been seen in public since returning to the UK, though they were photographed making their way to a local pub during a low-key outing. Meghan has also been spotted at a pub alongside fellow American celebrity Ellen DeGeneres and her wife Portia de Rossi.
Return to the UK and Royal Protocol
They relocated back to the UK in August, bringing their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. After their homecoming, a letter was dispatched 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 revealed that the statement took them by "surprise" and responded by saying they would prefer to be recognised as "public figures" rather than "private citizens" as the King classified them.
