Prince Harry and Meghan Markle found themselves once again omitted from the guest list for the prestigious Trooping the Colour ceremony, as reported by People on Tuesday. The annual event, commemorating the official birthday of King Charles III, is set to occur on June 15.
Despite stepping back from their senior royal roles in 2020, Queen Elizabeth II had previously permitted the Sussexes to attend the 2022 Trooping the Colour parade discreetly. The couple was captured engaging in conversation at Buckingham Palace's Major General’s Office during the kickoff event for the Queen's four-day Platinum Jubilee celebration.
However, conspicuous by their absence from the Buckingham Palace balcony photos that year, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were notably excluded. Instead, the Queen was accompanied by Prince Charles, Camilla Parker Bowles, Prince William, Kate Middleton, and their three children.
Sources revealed concerns among royal courtiers that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's presence might overshadow the monarch during the photo opportunity. Since assuming his mother's royal duties following her passing in September 2022, King Charles has taken a firmer stance on Harry and Meghan's involvement in royal affairs.
Charles opted not to extend an invitation to the Sussexes for his inaugural Trooping the Colour last year. In a further move, he directed the removal of Harry and Meghan's bios from the royal family's website in March.
The updated website description now states, "As announced in January 2020, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have stepped back as working members of The Royal Family. The couple married in St George’s Chapel, Windsor on 19 May 2018 and have two children: Prince Archie of Sussex and Princess Lilibet of Sussex."
In February, Harry briefly visited the UK to see his father after Charles was diagnosed with cancer. However, their interactions have been limited due to Charles' reported busy schedule.
With Harry and Meghan absent, this year's Trooping the Colour may see further reductions as Kate Middleton navigates her own battle with cancer. The Princess of Wales is set to resume her role as the honorary colonel of the Irish Guards but will not participate in the traditional Colonel’s Review on June 8.
Reports suggest Middleton is deliberating whether to partake in the annual balcony photograph.
