The confirmation that Meghan Markle will not be attending King Charles III's coronation at Westminster Abbey on May 6 has elicited mixed reactions. Some have expressed relief, while others have shown sympathy for the Duchess of Sussex.
A representative for the Sussexes confirmed that only Prince Harry would travel to London for the event, leaving Meghan behind in California with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Buckingham Palace released a statement saying, "Buckingham Palace is pleased to confirm that the Duke of Sussex will attend the Coronation Service at Westminster Abbey on May 6."
The announcement comes nine days after the couple missed the RSVP deadline on April 3. Public opinion on Meghan's absence from the ceremony has been divided, with reactions being shared on social media.
One relieved user wrote, "What a relief," while another added, "I'm glad Meghan Markle is not attending the Coronation and will stay in California with her kids." A third chimed in, "Glad to hear Meghan Markle is staying away from the Coronation."
Conversely, some praised the Duchess of Sussex for remaining in California to celebrate Prince Archie's birthday on May 6. One user commented, "That's great! Let Archie's birthday be a non-stressful day - also very important to take care of one's mental well-being." Another supported her decision, saying, "As she should. That's her baby," while a third wrote, "Good for her."
The reason for Meghan's decision not to attend the coronation remains unclear. Some speculate that she wishes to avoid public scrutiny or an awkward reunion with the royal family. However, "Finding Freedom" co-author Omid Scobie cited Archie's birthday as a factor, tweeting, "I understand that Archie's fourth birthday (also on May 6) played a factor in the couple's decision. Expect it to be a fairly quick trip to the U.K. for Prince Harry, who will only be attending the coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey."
Meghan last accompanied Prince Harry to the U.K. in September 2022 for charity events and Queen Elizabeth II's funeral. They departed quietly following the state funeral on September 19.
Prince Harry had previously expressed doubt that he would be invited to his father's coronation in a January interview about his memoir "Spare." However, a spokesperson confirmed on March 4 that he received an email invitation. Their children were reportedly not invited to the event.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams believes that Prince Harry had "no choice" but to attend and that Meghan's absence is "for the best." He told The Sun that the British public would not "miss" her, adding that it was crucial for Charles that his son attend.
Fellow royal expert Adam Helliker criticized Meghan as rude for declining the coronation invitation, considering King Charles III's efforts to welcome her into the royal family. He referenced the fact that His Majesty escorted Meghan down the aisle during her wedding to Prince Harry on May 19, 2018.
