Less than three months before King Charles' coronation, the event has proven controversial. From the event's cost to the possible attendance of Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and Prince Andrew, the public is now waiting to see what will happen.
King Charles' coronation will be held at Windsor Castle on May 6. As this will be a historic event, all eyes are now on occasion due to the controversies surrounding it, which may cause a public backlash.
The Coronation's Cost
The coronation will occur as the people suffer from financial problems, resulting in a cost-of-living crisis. The U.K. has avoided entering an economic recession as Chancellor Jeremy Hunt warns the country isn't out of the woods yet with its economy.
Hence, some ask if an event of such extravagance and cost is appropriate. Though it will be shorter than Queen Elizabeth's and have fewer guest lists, its cost and an extra bank holiday may still be worth millions, if not billions.
The Crown Controversy
Buckingham Palace confirms that Camilla, Queen Consort, will use Queen Mary's crown at the coronation. This means it will be the first time in recent history that an already-made crown will be used.
Amid the controversies that come with the crown, according to reports, it will be revamped and added with the Cullinan III, IV, and V diamonds that come from Queen Elizabeth's personal jewelry collection.
Public Anointment
King Charles is believed to be the first monarch in British history to make an anointing using holy oil at the coronation public. This move, which sees the Archbishop of Canterbury using holy oil to anoint his hands, breast, and head, is usually held in private.
A golden cloth canopy hid queen Elizabeth's anointment, but her son wanted to make it public by using a transparent cover instead. That said, critics believe this key religious ritual should stay private to keep the mystery of it.
Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, Prince Andrew's Attendance
As the coronation nears, many wonder if Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and Prince Andrew will be at the event. It remains to be seen if the Sussexes have already received an invitation. However, King Charles is said to be eager to have his youngest witness the ceremony despite the allegations made against the royal family in the docuseries "Harry & Meghan" and the memoir "Spare."
Alternatively, it's also not known if Prince Andrew will attend the coronation, fearing he may overshadow the event due to his alleged sexual abuse victim Virginia Giuffre's upcoming memoir that may expose what he did. It's also unclear if he will play a role at the crowning, considering he's still a Knight of the Garter.
