Christmas has always been a time for the royal family to showcase their long-standing traditions, from their public walk to the Sandringham church service to the King’s annual televised address. These customs serve as a glittering reminder of their sense of duty and decorum. However, once again, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are noticeably absent from this year’s celebrations — and they understand why.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s royal Christmas snub controversy explained
When Harry and Meghan stepped back from their royal duties in January 2020, it marked a significant change in their connection to the royal family. Though they retained their Duke and Duchess titles, they no longer participate in royal engagements or charitable endeavors tied to the monarchy. Their move to California further distanced them from the family and its traditions.
This year, while the royal family gathers at Sandringham for their usual festive celebrations, Harry, Meghan, and their children — Archie (5) and Lilibet (3) — are staying in their Montecito home. Joining them is Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland, making it an intimate celebration for the Sussex family.
Harry once enjoyed the grand Christmas traditions at Sandringham, including Boxing Day hunts, lively party games, and the royal gift exchanges. But this year, no invitation was extended to him or Meghan. While this might seem surprising, insiders suggest the reasons are clear. After the couple’s public criticism of the royal family — including their revealing Oprah interview and Harry’s tell-all memoir — tensions have made their presence unwelcome.
“Harry and Meghan have chosen a life separate from the royal family, and Harry seems increasingly focused on building a happy, settled life in California,” shared former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond.
Royal biographer Ingrid Seward added that while King Charles might have wished to see his grandchildren, inviting Harry and Meghan would have created awkwardness for the rest of the family. This led to the decision not to extend an official invitation.
This year, King Charles also broke from tradition by delivering his Christmas message from Fitzrovia Chapel in London instead of Buckingham Palace. While the chapel’s serene setting aligns with the King’s gratitude toward the health service, some suggest this change also helped avoid potential scrutiny of the family portraits usually on display at Buckingham Palace, which might no longer prominently feature Harry and Meghan.
Though absent from Sandringham, Meghan has reportedly planned a meaningful and low-key Christmas for her family. She hinted at simple festivities, including a hearty meal, playing games, and singing songs with a guitar. While it may not match the grandeur of the royal family’s celebrations, it’s a special moment for the Sussex family to enjoy peace and togetherness.
Ultimately, the Sussexes’ Christmas might lack royal pomp, but it reflects their choice to build a new life away from the traditions and tensions of the monarchy.