Princess Eugenie, Princess Beatrice, and Zara Tindall have come under fire for not supporting Prince Harry during his recent visit to the UK for the Invictus Games service at St. Paul's Cathedral on May 8. Fans of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have expressed their disappointment and frustration over the absence of Harry's cousins, who are known to have close personal ties with him and Meghan Markle.
During the event, Prince Harry appeared alone without any immediate family members, as his wife Meghan Markle and their children stayed in Montecito. His father, King Charles, attended a Buckingham Palace garden party, while his brother, Prince William, was busy with an investiture at Windsor Castle. Despite this, Prince Harry was joined by his late mother Princess Diana's siblings, Charles Spencer and Lady Jane Fellowes, who came to show their support.
Social media was abuzz with comments from royal watchers criticizing the non-attendance of Zara, 42, Beatrice, 35, and Eugenie, 34. One fan remarked, "Diana's family attended the Invictus service as support for Prince Harry, whose family didn't turn up. Not even his favorite cousin Zara. That's family for you." Another added, "The absence of Zara Tindall and other members of the Royal Family at Prince Harry's Invictus Games Service raised questions."
Fans questioned why other non-working royals like Princess Anne, Prince Edward, and Lady Louise did not attend the service either. "I don't care what anyone thinks. It's shameful how that family didn't show up, not just for Harry, but the worldwide veterans who participate in Invictus," another critic posted. There was also mention of Beatrice and Eugenie's previous visits to Harry in America, including a notable outing to the Super Bowl.
However, some royal supporters came to the defense of the princesses, citing possible scheduling conflicts. One user pointed out, "Princess Eugenie lives in the UK and Portugal yes. I said I was sad that neither of the princesses attended." Another explained, "I think Princess Beatrice was in New York for her own charity commitment but still disappointing. I think though they are supportive of Harry more than the rest of the family."
In contrast, Princess Beatrice is poised to take on a more visible role within the Royal Family this summer, amidst her cousins' absence at the Invictus Games. With the Princess of Wales recovering at home and King Charles resuming light duties, Beatrice's increased presence at royal engagements is both timely and significant. At 35, Beatrice, traditionally considered a non-working royal, is expected to participate in several key events.
Beatrice is set to join King Charles during the upcoming state visit by Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako at Buckingham Palace. This event is one of many high-profile engagements on the royal agenda, including Trooping the Colour, a state banquet, Garter Day, the 80th D-Day anniversary, and numerous Buckingham Palace garden parties.
The increased involvement of Princess Beatrice comes at a crucial time for the monarchy, which has a limited number of working members. According to reports, King Charles aims to include Beatrice and occasionally her sister, Princess Eugenie, in the cast list for such events. This strategy reflects a broader effort to invigorate the royal presence with fresh faces and maintain public engagement.
Beatrice's past engagements, like her assistance to Queen Elizabeth II during the 2012 Maundy Thursday service, underscore her readiness and enjoyment in her royal role. Her participation this summer is a testament to her commitment to her family's legacy and public duties, despite maintaining her status as a non-working royal.
Currently balancing her professional endeavors in New York with her royal responsibilities, Beatrice's life is a blend of modern and traditional roles. Her involvement this summer symbolizes a bridge between the old and the new, showcasing her ambition and confidence in fulfilling royal duties.
