Additional Coverage:
A new biography of King Charles III reveals details about the late Queen Elizabeth II’s final moments, including the notable absence of the Duchess of Sussex. Author Robert Hardman’s book, Charles III: New King, New Court, The Inside Story, sheds light on why neither Meghan Markle nor Kate Middleton were present as the Queen passed away at Balmoral Castle.
While the Princess of Wales reportedly shared a close bond with the Queen, she remained in England to support her children as they began their first day at Lambrook School. According to Hardman, King Charles used this as a reason to ask Prince Harry to leave Meghan Markle behind, seemingly to spare her feelings.
This account appears to align with Prince Harry’s recollection in his memoir, Spare. The Duke of Sussex recounted a tense phone call with his father, where Charles explained that Kate would not be present and, therefore, Meghan shouldn’t attend either. At the time, Prince Harry accepted this explanation, unaware that Kate’s absence was her own decision.
The book’s revelations raise questions about the dynamics within the royal family during the Queen’s final hours. Whether Meghan Markle would have been asked to stay away had Kate Middleton been present remains a matter of speculation.