King Charles is reportedly 'disappointed and upset' after Meghan Markle chose not to accompany Prince Harry on his five-day trip to the UK, according to a former royal butler. The Duchess of Sussex's absence has dashed hopes for a family reunion and raised questions about the future of her relationship with the monarchy.
Security Concerns Prompt Meghan's Decision
Meghan opted to stay in the US as Harry began his UK visit, citing mounting security concerns. The couple lost their armed police protection when they stepped down as senior working royals in 2020. Harry had been awaiting a decision on a security reassessment by the Risk Management Board (RMB), part of the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec). Just days before the trip, the Sussexes were informed that no decision had been made, and reports suggested a request for police protection for the visit had been denied.
King's Hope for a Meeting
King Charles had instructed his aides to find a time in his diary that would suit both Harry and Meghan, with hopes of reuniting with his grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, for the first time since 2022. A royal source told The Mirror: 'While nothing has been ruled out, conversations remain ongoing.' However, Meghan's decision not to travel has complicated these plans.
Meghan's Displeasure with Palace Treatment
Sources claim Meghan is unhappy with how the palace has treated Harry during his stay and does not wish to meet them. A source told journalist Rob Shuter on his Substack: 'This was one insult too many. Meghan feels they’ve bent over backwards for Harry’s family, only to be embarrassed again. As far as she’s concerned, she’ll never see them again.' This stance may sacrifice her once-close bond with King Charles and any chance of repairing the damaged relationship.
Former Royal Butler Weighs In
Grant Harrold, a former royal butler, told OLBG that the trip could have been a turning point for Meghan. He said: 'This trip could have been a big turning point for Meghan, as it could have been a huge step in terms of relations between her and the royals. A private, in-person meeting with her in-laws was the next positive step on their path to fix the upset. It also could have done wonders for her in terms of public perception.' Harrold added: 'If she doesn’t come, it’s not going to fix anything. I think she’s basically saying if it doesn’t happen on our terms, it’s not going to happen.'
King's Disappointment
Harrold shared his belief that King Charles will be 'really disappointed and upset.' He said: 'He had such a close bond with Meghan. I think he’ll be really upset, not just about missing out on the meeting but also on what it means for the future. I’d be interested to know if Meghan messaged the King personally to apologise.'
Harry's High Court Case and Palace Tensions
Earlier in the week, Harry lost a High Court case against Associated Newspapers on July 7. Reports suggest the King was advised not to see Harry until the case was resolved to avoid compromising his constitutional position. One source claimed Harry kept changing his mind, leaving the palace with no choice but to say 'forget it' regarding a stay at Buckingham Palace. It remains unclear whether Meghan will eventually join Harry in Birmingham, but as of now, her absence has left the King deeply disappointed.
