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Shocking Result of Archie DNA Test: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Criticized for Banning Meeting with Queen
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle faced criticism for their decision not to attend Prince Philip's memorial service, as it was seen as petulant and rude.
According to a royal expert, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were aware that their absence would be viewed negatively.
The Thanksgiving service for the late Duke of Edinburgh took place at Westminster Abbey on Tuesday, with around 1,800 people in attendance, including the Queen, Prince Charles, and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, along with their children George and Charlotte.
Even Prince Andrew, despite recent controversies, made an appearance, arriving with the Queen by car.
In contrast, the Sussexes chose to stay at home in the US, citing concerns for their family's safety in the UK without police protection.
Royal expert Ingrid Seward expressed her disappointment with their decision, stating that it was a missed opportunity for Meghan and the children to join the extended royal family and meet Archie's European cousins and contemporaries.
Seward believed that the couple simply did not want to attend, despite there being no security issues.
She emphasized that the abbey was heavily guarded by Secret Service men, ensuring the safety of the attendees, which included royalty, politicians, and high-ranking military personnel.
Seward added that Harry must have known that their absence would be seen as petulant and rude, and if he didn't realize it, Meghan certainly would have.
Seward further stated that Harry's decision to skip the memorial service was a snub to the entire royal family and would have negative consequences.
She predicted that he would regret not having the opportunity to publicly pay his respects to his grandfather, who had always supported him.
Having upset influential people multiple times, Harry had burned too many bridges.
Seward also noted that the couple did not release any statement or tribute to mark the day, although the Queen would have been informed in advance about their absence, as Harry maintains regular contact with his grandmother for various reasons.
The silence from the Sussexes spoke volumes, and their supporters on social media remained silent as well.
Criticism of Harry and Meghan's absence from the service has been widespread, especially due to their failure to provide a reason or explanation.
However, Harry had previously stated that he would not return to the UK until security issues were resolved.
Meanwhile, the couple continues to make headlines for their association with the royal family.
Pauline McLaren, a Professor of Marketing and Consumer Research at Royal Holloway, commented on their need to maintain their royal connections.
She emphasized that without their ties to British royalty, they would be “nobodies” in the US, where they are trying to establish themselves.
McLaren stated that their unique selling point lies in their humanitarian efforts and high profile, which is largely due to their titles and associations with British royalty.
However, she warned that the longer they stay away, the more they lose the “royal magic” that has defined them.
McLaren also highlighted the importance of Harry and Meghan maintaining their royal connections, as the royals themselves benefit from the diversity they bring, particularly Meghan.
It is unfortunate that they have lost that connection.
As a result, McLaren advised the couple to strengthen their associations with royalty.
The advice comes in the wake of their decision to opt out of Prince Philip's memorial service due to security concerns.