Meghan Markle issued statement via her ‘Global Press Secretary’ to confirm she would be watching Philip’s funeral
MEGHAN Markle issued an official press release ahead of Prince Philip's funeral to announce she would be watching the ceremony from home.
The Duchess of Sussex confirmed she was observing the service stateside in a statement delivered by her and Harry's 'Global Press Secretary'.
The heavily pregnant 39-year-old stayed in the US on doctor's orders while Prince Harry made the 5,400-mile trip ahead of the event.
The statement touched on the reasons for her notable absence, reading: "I can confirm that The Duchess will be watching from home as she was hopeful to be able to attend, but was not cleared for travel by her physician at this stage in her pregnancy,"
The statement went on to describe Harry and his late grandfather's relationship, and their "unique connection in their shared active service – including in combat – as part of the British Armed Forces."
It continued by listing Harry's achievements throughout his ten-year military career, touching on his two tours of Afghanistan.
But the announcement ruffled a few feathers in royal circles, as the press release later mentioned the supplier of the wreath the couple had laid for Phil in St George's Chapel.
They hand-selected the flowers for the tribute and Meghan also left a handwritten note remembering the Duke of Edinburgh.
Details on the floral tributes from members of the royal family had not been released, as they were "personal and private", Buckingham Palace said.
The Palace also confirmed those who were unable to attend would make "private arrangements" to mark Philip's life.
A source close to the Sussexes confirmed to that Meghan watched the service through a special live stream with Archie from the couple’s home in California.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry was reunited with his father Charles and Prince William - sparking hopes the long-running brotherly rift could be squashed.
Charles had private talks with his warring sons after the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral — and insiders say it is just what Philip would have wanted.
The three met up away from the cameras following Saturday’s televised service.
They remained together for two hours at Windsor Castle as they mingled with family members on its Quadrangle.
In the wake of the reconciliation, Harry may now stay on for the Queen’s 95th birthday this Wednesday.
It will be the first without Philip in seven decades - and she will only be surrounded by the members of staff who make up her "Windsor bubble".
An official portrait to mark her birthday is unlikely, as she is still in the official mourning period for her treasured husband.
Her Majesty was forced to sit alone inside the chapel as she paid a final farewell to Philip, due to covid restrictions.
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Heartbreaking images showed the Queen sat solemnly on the empty pews, as her family members sat metres away, unable to comfort her.
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As the 30 limit rule does not include clergy, the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Dean of Windsor presided over the service on April 17, 2021.
A small choir of just four people, including one soprano, sang pieces of music chosen by the duke.
