The coronation of King Charles III was a historic event steeped in tradition, but it also carried its fair share of controversy and speculation. One of the most talked-about topics leading up to the event was the absence of Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex. While Buckingham Palace officially stated that Meghan chose to stay in California with her children, many have speculated that her absence was orchestrated to avoid overshadowing the King on his momentous day.
In the months leading up to the coronation, the royal family worked to present a unified front amidst lingering tensions following Prince Harry and Meghan’s departure from royal duties in 2020. Official reports from the palace indicated that Meghan had declined the invitation, opting instead to focus on celebrating her son Archie’s birthday, which coincided with the coronation. This explanation seemed reasonable to many, as it portrayed Meghan as prioritizing her family.
However, insiders and royal commentators have suggested that there may have been more to Meghan’s absence than personal choice. Some believe that concerns over Meghan potentially drawing attention away from King Charles played a significant role in the decision. Meghan is known for her charisma and her ability to command media attention, often overshadowing other members of the royal family during past events.
Critics argue that her presence at the coronation could have diverted focus from King Charles and the ceremony itself, shifting the narrative to her relationship with the royal family or her choice of attire. Given the media frenzy that often surrounds her, it’s plausible that palace officials, keen to ensure the coronation was solely about the King, viewed her attendance as a potential distraction.
The idea of managing royal appearances to maintain focus on specific individuals is not new. Princess Diana, Meghan’s late mother-in-law, faced similar issues during her time as a royal. Diana’s ability to captivate audiences often eclipsed Prince Charles, leading to tensions within their marriage and public duties. Comparisons between Meghan and Diana have further fueled theories that her absence was a strategic move to prevent history from repeating itself.
While Meghan has not publicly addressed her decision to skip the coronation, sources close to her suggest she felt attending might create unnecessary drama. By staying away, Meghan may have aimed to avoid fueling tabloid narratives and allow the focus to remain on the King’s coronation.
Whether Meghan’s absence was her own choice or influenced by palace concerns, it highlights the delicate dynamics within the royal family and their relationship with the media. The coronation marked a pivotal moment for King Charles, and ensuring the day unfolded without controversy was likely a top priority for palace officials.
Meghan’s absence allowed the coronation to proceed without significant distractions, but it also underscored the enduring complexities of her role within the royal family and the public’s fascination with her every move. Whether she was prevented from attending or chose to stay away, the speculation surrounding her absence demonstrates the continued scrutiny she faces as a member of the royal family.
