Royal Protocol: Meghan Markle’s Carriage Choice Sparks Controversy

Amid the somber and dignified procession carrying Queen Elizabeth II's casket from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall, a subtle yet significant choice made by Meghan Markle has stirred discussions among royal watchers.

The Duchess of Sussex, 41, opted not to ride in the same vehicle as Kate Middleton and Camilla, the Queen Consort.

Instead, she shared a car with Sophie, Countess of Wessex, while Middleton, now the Princess of Wales, accompanied Camilla due to her status as Prince William's wife and the future queen following King Charles III's recent ascension.

While the male members of the royal family, including Charles, William, Harry, Princess Anne, Andrew, and Edward, walked behind the Queen's casket, the female royals arrived separately in cars.

Notably, William and Harry, despite their strained relationship, walked side by side, evoking memories of their unity during Princess Diana's funeral in 1997.

Prior to the Queen's funeral, a poignant scene unfolded as members of the public paid their respects by placing flowers on a wooden table beside the casket.

Following a brief ceremony, the royal family departed, with William and Middleton leaving together, and Harry and Markle following suit, sparking conversations with a display of public affection.

In a rare moment of unity, the Fab Four—William, Middleton, Harry, and Markle—came together after the Queen's passing on September 8 at the age of 96.

William extended an invitation for his brother and sister-in-law to visit Windsor Castle, setting aside their differences to honor the late monarch and witness the tributes outside the castle gates.

The rift within the royal family, exacerbated by Harry and Meghan's decision to step back from their duties in 2020 and move to California, has been a subject of speculation.

Reports of tensions between Markle and Middleton, notably regarding an incident before Meghan's wedding in 2018, have fueled ongoing rumors.

In a recent development, Meghan and Harry have parted ways with Sunshine Sachs, a prominent public relations firm that previously collaborated with the couple's Archwell Foundation team.

Despite their past association, the duo is no longer in close contact with the agency, signaling a shift in their PR strategy.

As the royal mourning period for Queen Elizabeth II draws to a close, Harry and Meghan find themselves navigating a new chapter.

Their multimillion-dollar deals, including a biography co-written by Harry and a documentary series produced by Liz Garbus, are in limbo, with uncertain release dates.

Despite the challenges and uncertainties ahead, Harry and Meghan continue to explore new avenues for their philanthropic endeavors.

The suspension of their Archewell Audio podcast series during the mourning period reflects their commitment to honoring the Queen's legacy while also forging their own path in the public eye.