Actress and singer Hannah Waddingham has made a late withdrawal from performing at the Princess of Wales's annual Christmas carol service this evening. The star was scheduled to sing at the prestigious Together at Christmas event at Westminster Abbey but pulled out due to problems with her voice.
Last-Minute Change for Abbey Performance
The Ted Lasso actress was due to perform the cherished carol In The Bleak Midwinter for an audience of 1,600 guests, which included members of the Royal Family. The announcement came just minutes before guests were set to arrive at the Abbey. A spokesperson indicated that her singing voice had been compromised from an exhausting filming schedule.
Despite not performing, the 51-year-old star will still be present in the congregation for the service, which is now in its fifth year. She will watch readings delivered by fellow actors Kate Winslet and Chiwetel Ejiofor.
Royal Connections and Celebrity Guests
Waddingham is no stranger to royal events, having attended several involving the Prince and Princess of Wales. She was most recently seen at the Festival of Remembrance in London on November 8. The actress has also hosted Prince William's Earthshot Prize awards ceremony, previously praising him as a glorious gentleman and the beating heart of the environmental initiative.
The star-studded guest list for tonight's service also includes:
- Celebrity chef Dame Mary Berry, who created a Christmas wreath on display.
- Performers Katie Melua, Fisherman's Friends, Griff, and Dan Smith from Bastille.
- Members of the England women's rugby World Cup winning squad and the Wales women's rugby team.
- Holocaust survivor Steven Frank, who was photographed by Kate in 2020.
- Second World War veterans Jack Mortimer and John Eskdale.
Celebrating Community Heroes
The heart of the service is to recognise individuals from across the UK who have dedicated time to their communities. In a letter to guests, the Princess of Wales praised these community stalwarts, stating they make an extraordinary difference to the lives of others.
One notable attendee is schoolgirl Madison Reed, who last year raised over £1,360 for the Archie Foundation by Highland dancing in 26 locations across Scotland, each starting with a different letter of the alphabet.
The princess's letter also reflected on the festive season, noting it reminds us how deeply our lives are woven together and highlights the power of reaching out to one another.
Royal fans were also hopeful for an appearance from Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, who attended the service last year alongside other senior royals.
