King Charles's 'final act' will bring Prince Harry and Meghan Markle back into royal fold
The reign of King Charles III has been marred by the tragic rift between him and his son, Prince Harry. The Prince and his wife Meghan Markle stepped back from their Royal duties in early 2020, relocating to the United States and causing a fracture in relations with the rest of the Royal Family.
The divide was further deepened following a shocking interview with US TV host Oprah Winfrey a year later, and, after the release of Harry's memoir 'Spare' in January 2023, it seemed there was no path back to Royal life for Harry.
However, it has come to light that His Majesty the King may have a plan to mend the Royal rift – but it hinges on a very sombre event occurring first.
Operation London Bridge – the funeral plan for the late Queen Elizabeth II – was devised in the 1960s when she would have been around 40. The plan detailed the announcement of her death, the official mourning period, and the specifics of her state funeral.
The code-name 'London Bridge' has now been repurposed for the new monarch's funeral. According to the Daily Telegraph, this plan includes a significant role for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
The Telegraph's Palace source reveals that Harry and Meghan will be invited to participate in the family vigil during the lying in state at Westminster Hall, and are expected to be seated amongst the most senior royals during the funeral service.
Harry and Meghan were seated directly behind the King and Queen Camilla at Queen Elizabeth II's funeral at Westminster Abbey, a move by Palace officials that saw them relegated to the second row near Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie.
In contrast, Prince William and Princess Katherine of Wales, along with their eldest children Prince George and Princess Charlotte, occupied the front row across a small aisle from the King and Queen.
This perceived snub reportedly left Harry and Meghan feeling more alienated and bitter upon their return to Montecito.
However, a Palace insider has suggested that for the King's funeral, whenever it may occur, the Sussexes will be "enveloped in the plans at the highest level," It is expected that Harry will walk alongside his brother through central London in the funeral procession as they mourn their father.
By planning to put aside past differences and placing Harry and Meghan at the centre of his funeral, the King has ensured that "his final public act brings his family together," according to the paper.
Any concerns Prince Harry may have about security will be addressed, as their protection will be incorporated into the broader funeral plan.
Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet are also expected to participate in age-appropriate parts of the funeral when the unfortunate passing of the King occurs.
The King's commitment to environmental issues is anticipated to play a significant role in the proceedings, with a strong focus on sustainability.
A representative for Buckingham Palace has been contacted for comment on these claims.
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